ballaster question

[Sussmad]

I am having some issues with my 70 dart /6. I bought the car as a winter ride in November and it is doing it's job for my short commute except that I have gone through 2 ballasters. 4 months ago replaced the one that came with the car and then today had to use the old spare that I carry around after the new one failed. wiring? the connections seem tight. this car is rough body wise and the ballaster probably has some exposure to the weather.

 

[3404speed]

points ignition?

Just converted my 69 slant six to HEI style electronic ignition...works good and by passes the ballast resistor.

 

[67Dart273]

If it gets wet it could be failing -- these things run HOT and a sudden dash of rain might just break them

You might have a mismatched coil--and it is drawing too much current

Where did you get them? Nowadays, QUALITY seems to be a real issue with parts. I'd try a good name brand part, as opposed to some of the "big box" stores

For the record, I've never heard it called a "ballaster" It's a "ballast" or "ignition resistor" or "coil resistor."

 

[Sussmad]

Thanks: Ok now I know what is called, that is the first step; I picked up one from NAPA (echilin brand) today. The one that failed wasn't shaped the same and cost about $3 so you get what you pay for. I'll see how it goes before switching to electronic ignition-just want the car to make it to the end of the summer when 2 kids go back to school. Thanks again.