on a whim, I pulled the coil from my stock 400. I found that instead of being a stock coil, it was a pertronix "flamethrower II" low resistance coil. i tested 1.1 ohm across the primary vs the 0.6 ohm on the sticker. replaced it with a BW stock coil. a quick google search indicates that the FTII is designed for an upgraded ignition system rather than points. questions: is the FTII going bad? what are the implications of running it in my stock ignition? if it tests bad at room temp, might it be even worse when hot? what are the symptoms of a dying coil? points, rotor and cap look fine, but will probably end up changing them all out to get to "new" stock condition along with a new condensor. also, measured 5.7V at the coil, so the resistor wire hasn't been altered. no leaks noted in FTII coil. with the new BW coil the car clearly starts much easier. haven't had a chance to romp it yet due to rain. what should I expect when I get back out? any ideas? thanks
The lower primary resistance indicates the usage in a high current, possible solid state ignition. Using is in a points application will likely lead to burned points. You might see a slightly smoother idle, especially if the plug gap is opened wider. You might also see slightly better throttle response. Power will not likely improve, unless the improvement is seen after a tune-up, though. Ray
Thanks, Ray. Are you saying that I should open the gaps with the stock coil, or that the FTII might allow a little more gap? I am at .032 now. I will leave the stock coil in and do the points, condensor and cap this week. If it ever stops raining, I'll get back on the road and see how she runs.
The wider gaps will enhance idle and throttle response, however, the additional current drawn by this coil will foreshorten points life. There are several points elimination kits that allow the usage of this coil, and they have their other advantages as well. Wider gaps have tremendous advantages, such as easier starting, lowered emissions, and improved throttle response, but you must pay the piper if you want to dance. Let me know...
