| > Any suggestions on how I can resolve this?  I like the 
> earlier kick- in, but being able to turn the engine off is a 
> higher priority ; ^ )
Strange, a coil usually needs a lot more current than that to keep the
engine running.  Normally that problem only shows up when using an
electronic ignition with a separate power feed (like a MSD).
Anyway, the fix is to add a diode in series with the wire to the alternator.
Pretty much any power diode will work; 1 amp 50 piv (or higher on either
rating).  The 'arrow' of the diode symbol should point towards the
alternator (meaning the diode will only conduct when the resistor/lamp is
more positive than the alternator terminal).  
Any Radio Shack or equivalent should have a suitable diode.  RS being kind
of expensive, you'll probably pay them a buck.  Digikey or Mouser should
have something for under $.10.  For example, a 1N5392 (100 piv, 1.5 amps) is
$.06 (qty 1) @ Mouser.
http://www.mouser.com/catalog/630/355.pdf
Randall
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