The resistance wire was really a smart idea- - - -it spread the voltage drop needed to keep the points from burning out over several feet instead of concentrating it in one place and developing so much heat that the resistor needed a ceramic insulator. I've never seen a resistance wire burn out- - - -and I've seen bunches of ballast resistors fail.

Never, EVER try to power a HEI ignition with a resistor wire! That 10 gauge wire from the ignition switch to the coil is there for a reason!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!