Hey all,

I was hoping today would be a day of joy seeing a 1958 235 run for the first time in decades... This engine is in a frame, but no other wiring is in place.

Twelve volt system with some parts of unknown provenance. I am getting spark from the coil wire.

After a period of cranking to get oil pressure up, I noticed the coil was getting very hot and the ceramic ballast resister (hot wired from a 12 volt battery inline to the positive terminal on the coil) began smoking!

Points were cleaned and they are opening and closing (with 0.016 gap), condenser is used but from a known running engine. The truck frame is in the sunlight so I can't really see a spark from the points as they close.

What should I check before something roasts?

Thanks in advance,

Paul


1941 Chevy 1 1/2-ton WW2 4x4 dump truck
In the Stovebolt Gallery
Lots more pictures