69 RR starter ballast question

• May 27, 2014

• #1

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mkeitsock

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I replaced the ignition ballast, it started and ran great, once. shut it down and went out the next day, attempted to start the car and I had to keep the ignition key in the on position to keep the engine running. Which was the problem initially and why I replaced the ballast. Any ideas?

Thanks

 

• May 28, 2014

• #2

Xp29h

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From what I understand, the ballast resistor cuts down on some of the voltage to the coil / ignition. I would look at the key switch? If you turn the key to start and it starts, you let go of key it it dies, if it were the ballast, I don't think it would start at all. Maybe someone will have a better thought. Good luck!

 

• May 28, 2014

• #3

Badvert65

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The ballast resistor is bypassed during Start. Assuming that the new ballast resistor did not fail, you problem would have to be either the ignition switch or possibly a broken wire/connection somewhere.
One other thing (I am reluctant to bring up) is that some cars have a resistor on the wiper motor and I have seen guys mistake that for the ignition ballast resistor. If there is a resistor on the wiper motor, it has nothing to do with the ignition.
Anyway, possible ignition switch or faulty wire connection.

 

• May 29, 2014

• #4

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mkeitsock

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thanks, i will look at the ignition key first

- - - Updated - - -

thanks for the tips, i will try the ignition key assembly

 

• May 29, 2014

• #5

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nm9stheham

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You can test this easily with a voltmeter: check the voltage at the dark blue wire connection to the ballast ( the end where the brown wire is NOT connected), with the key in the RUN position. The voltage there should be very close to the battery voltage. If not, then either the ignition switch or the jumper around the VR +connection (dark blue wires again) or pin N in the bulkhead connector (with the heavy wires going through it) are the likely culprits. I am assuming a stock or close to stock wiring system.

 

• Jun 1, 2014

• #6

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mkeitsock

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another great tip and thank you. I do have a stock wiring system so I will check your suggestion out. Thanks again.