VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1912-1928 1925 Coil and condenser question

My original type coil failed and I would like to replace it with a modern coil and external condenser until I can get the original one fixed. My question is how is this hooked up and is the resistor replaced on the modern coil.

Rich my Chevy electrical repair manual dated November 1,1924 states that the coil should draw 3-4 amps with the points closed.Any more would start to burn your points in the distributor. I would use an amp meter to check the current flow and add a resistor as needed to get 3-4 amp draw . You can pick up small resistors at an electrical parts store like Radio Shack or some place comparable. Hope this helps.
Steve

Assuming you're running a 6 volt system, you need a 6 volt coil. These are available at auto part stores. You shouldn't need a resistor. There should already be a condenser attached to your distributor. I believe some 12 volt coils come with external resistors which some cars with 12 volt systems require. Could there be confusion about the difference between a resistor and a condenser? Resistors cut down the current and condensers are special capacitors that store current.

I'm running a 6v system with the original type coil. The condenser is built inside the coil. There is a wire wound resistor on top. If you run an early Chevy you'll know what I mean. I have a modern 6v coil. There is no room in the distributor for th condenser so it has to go on the outside of the coil. MY question is does the condenser lead attach to the positive or the negative post on the coil.

Chevrolet uses a negative ground so the condenser would go on the negative side of the the coil. The same wire that goes to the distributor.

Great! Thank you!