I have an ignition resistor on the firewall of my 1950 pick up. It has been converted to 12 V. Do I still need to use the ignition resistor? Thanks, skinned knuckles
1 1951 Chev Panel with a 350 small block, automatic tranny. 1 2004 Chev 2500 HD pickup... stock 1 1950 Chev 5 window pickup; 261 c.i. engine, 4 on the floor.
With lots of time and money, any Stovebolt can be restored.
Original 6 volt system didn't use a resistor, was added when converted to 12 volt. Should also have a by pass circuit to supply full system voltage to points while cranking, assuming it still has points.
BC 1960 Chevy C10 driver 261 T5 4.10 dana 44 power loc 1949 GMC 250 project in waiting 1960 C60 pasture art Retired GM dealer tech. 1980 - 2022
Yes. Also called a ballast resistor. It is commonly used in 12 Volt conversions. It reduces the running voltage to about 9 volts to protect the points. You should also have a bypass for starting on 12 volts if it is done correctly. Fred
1956 3100 Pickup/Red/350/3sp OD/PS/Disc Brakes 1957 Bel Air Sport Coupe/Red/355/TH350/PS/Disc Brakes 2017 Silverado LT Single Cab SB/Black/5.3/6 Speed Trans 1947 Willys CJ2A w/F-Head engine
Drawing below was hacked out of a 1950 Chevy Truck wiring diagram. I removed everything except the ignition system. The red ballast resistor should be installed in the line between the ignition switch "run" terminal and coil +. The green wire needs to be added between the side terminal on the new "12 volt" stomp starter switch and coil +.
Last edited by Bill Hanlon; 03/25/202510:59 PM.
'57 GMC 102, Original 347 V8, HydraMatic, 3.08 rear gear, added A/C, disk front brakes, HEI, AFB carb, '98 Honda Black Currant paint. T-boned and totaled 10/12 '52 GMC 152 Stake Bed, Original 228, SM420, added A/C, HEI, disk front brakes, '67 Chev 3.55 rear gear. Gets used as a real truck.
