If your solenoid has terminals marked "R" "S" "B"(or batt), the big red cable I see should be from the battery to the big post. As stated, the "R" goes to coil +, the "S" goes to the ignition switch marked "SOL". Now back to your ballast resistor question. You need a wire from the "IGN" terminal on the ignition switch to the ballast, then out the other side of ballast to the coil +. That would make two wires to coil +. First, follow all of those wires on the solenoid and draw a schematic diagram and study and see if it matches the info here. Solenoid may be marked "I" instead of "R". Same hook up.
The ignition switch is usually marked on the back. Batt(B), on/run(IGN), Acc, Start(S) or similar markings.
In your case: The full 12V is applied when your spring loaded switch is held far right or your push button is pushed. When either is released, the run circuit, thru the ballast, takes over. Mike and TC have already said all this, hope I did not add confusion trying to capsulize.
Mike was saying "assuming you have a stomp starter". Now we know you don't, now we know you have 12V. We don't know what Ignition switch you have and assume you still have a voltage reg and generator.
It's best not to use electrical tape like we all used to. Now we have tie wraps and loom. Electrical tape will not last in that heat and is messy to get off. If it was used to mend, that's no good. The wire should be totally replaced.
If you wish to use duct tape, contact 52Carl. (expert)
