> There is a cylindrical object that I believe is a condenser (about 1" high
> and 3/8" in diameter) that is fastened to the engine block. The wire from
> this goes to the distributor (I think) but is broken off and there is not
> enough lead to re-solder.
>
> a) What is this for?
> b) Do I need it (car does not start)?
> c) Where can I get one? (VB catalog doesn't seem to show this part.
It's apparently a DPO-ism, could be either the condenser across the points
(which is essential, car will not run without), or an added RFI suppression
condenser (non essential). Look in the distributor to see if there is still
a condenser inside. If there is, then the one bolted to the block was
probably added just to reduce noise in the radio. If not, I would suggest
putting a stock condenser back inside the dizzy.
> Also, there is what appears to be a ceramic resistor (2" by 1/2" by 1/2").
> d) Is this the ballast resistor?
> e) Is it likely to have failed?
> f) Where can I get one? (VB catalog doesn't seem to show this part.
Again it's not stock, but a DPO may have added it because the usual one
embedded in the wiring harness was bad. They can fail, although it's not
very common. I'd suggest getting a cheap DVM (Harbor Freight, $10) and
doing a bit of detective work to be sure the resistor is required and good.
With the points closed and the key on, the voltage at the positive (hot)
terminal on the coil should be 6 to 9 volts (and the other low tension
terminal should be 0 volts). With the points open of course, they both rise
to 12v.
Any auto parts store should be able to sell you a generic ballast resistor.
Randall
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