I am replacing gauges and switches in a 302 powered REO. The distributor is the OEM single point type. My questions: 1. The center post of the OEM ignition switch goes live when the key is turned to ignition but then goes dead when the key is moved to the start position. Can anyone tell me why that is and/or where that wire goes? 2. The power to the coil is through a resistance/resistor wire. Can anyone tell me what resistor would be needed to replace that wire? I'm pretty accomplished with older car electrics but the car has been "upgraded" at some time. Whoever did it sure was messy and made a nightmare out of it. I'd rather not have to trace each wire to it's ultimate destination and hope someone here can offer a bit of help. Thank you in advance. Bob
1.) The center post is the accessory terminal. (Ever notice the wipers and radio will turn off when the key is in the 'Start' position?) 2.) You can use a regular wire to feed the coil along with a Dodge/Chrysler style ballast resistor when using a point system or Mustang vendors sell the pink resistor wire for around $20.. The resistor's (wire or ballast resistor) job is to keep a full 12V from feeding the coil. The less voltage will add life to the points. 12V will burn up the coil/points too soon.
Thank you Jeff. I suspected that was the case but rather than screw things up on a hunch, I thought it best to ask. I suppose I don't have to worry about accessories, the car doesn't have any.....at all. No windshield wiper, radio, power windows errr, it doesn't have windows either. It's a Roadster. That's why I couldn't do the trial and flame-test trick. As for the resistor/wire, I suppose I should get a spare. Thanks for the reply. I feel better now. Bob
