Best Ignition Ballast Resistors of 2025
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Ignition ballast resistors are essential components in modern ignition systems. These resistors are designed to regulate the voltage of the electrical current flowing through the ignition coil. The primary function of these resistors is to prevent the ignition coil from overheating and burning out. They do this by reducing the voltage that is delivered to the coil, which in turn reduces the amount of heat that is generated. This makes ignition ballast resistors an important part of any ignition system, as they help to ensure that the system operates safely and efficiently. They are often used in vehicles, boats, and other types of machinery that rely on internal combustion engines.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 10 Ignition Ballast Resistors
Standard Motor Products Ignition Ballast Resister
This ignition ballast resistor comes in a compact package with dimensions of 1.82 x 4.5 x 3.1 inches and a weight of 0.45 pounds. It is designed to fit your specific vehicle, ensuring a perfect match for your ignition system. This product falls under the category of Ignition Ballast Resistors.
Standard Motor Products RU37 Oil Resistor
This oil resistor is made in the United States and has a package height of 2.21 inches, a length of 4.8 inches, and a width of 3.32 inches. It falls under the category of ignition ballast resistors.
PartCatalog Ballast Resistor PC-836523
PartCatalog Resistor is a high-quality OE replacement designed to match or even surpass the performance of your original ballast resistor. It is a direct fit for your vehicle, making installation a breeze. The exceptional quality ensures reliable ignition, while the perfect compatibility guarantees a seamless replacement. Check the fitment chart to confirm it suits your vehicle.
Ballast Resistor for Stable Coil Current
This ballast resistor is designed to stabilize coil current and extend point life. It is computer-wound to ensure resistance value and has premium ceramic bodies that provide maximum durability and superior heat transfer. This resistor is recommended when a new coil is installed and is rated at 200 watts and 0.75 (cold) – 1.5 (hot) ohms.
Bosch Ballast Resistor
Bosch 0227901013 Ballast Resistor is an ignition ballast resistor that guarantees fit and function while meeting or exceeding OEM specifications. It is manufactured with high quality materials and is equivalent to OEM part number 12 14 1 363 170.
Bosch Ballast Resistor for Ignition Systems
The Bosch 0227901012 Ballast Resistor is designed to provide a guaranteed fit and function in your ignition system. It meets or exceeds OEM specifications and is made of the highest quality materials to ensure durability and reliability. This resistor is an OEM equivalent part number: SMART%A0001582045.
Crown Automotive Fuel Pump Ballast Resistor Review
The Crown Automotive Fuel Pump Ballast Resistor Air and Fuel Delivery is a high-quality and durable direct replacement product that enhances the style, comfort, and functionality of your vehicle. It is constructed with top-quality materials, ensuring that it lasts long. This product is perfect for those who are looking for reliable ignition ballast resistors.
Dodge Challenger Ballast Resistor by PartCatalog
The PartCatalog Ballast Resistor is designed specifically for your 1970-1973 Dodge Challenger, ensuring a perfect fit with no hassle. This reliable replacement part meets or exceeds the original quality and performance standards, allowing you to enjoy the same efficiency as your original equipment. With its exceptional design, you can trust it to deliver consistent performance, enhancing your vehicle’s ignition system. Before purchasing, check the compatibility in the provided specifications to ensure it’s the right match for your car, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
JEGS GM “R” Terminal Diode Harness Kit
The JEGS GM “R” Terminal Diode Harness Kit is specially designed to be used with GM vehicles originally equipped with breaker point ignition and ballast resistor. It allows the wiring of the coil to require an "R" terminal signal. This kit is not required for cars that have HEI, MSD, or other aftermarket ignition systems. The kit is made with high-quality components and assembly in the USA. Each package contains one GM “R” Terminal Diode Kit.
Chrysler Dodge Plymouth Ballast Resistor
The Sawyer Auto Ballast Resistor is designed for 1969-1994 Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles with a V6 3.9L engine. This product meets OE standards, ensuring that it is manufactured with modern tools for top-notch quality and dependability. It is specifically crafted to match the original specifications, providing you with a more durable option than the OEM parts. Installation is straightforward, as it is a direct replacement that fits like the factory unit. This means you can replace your resistor with confidence, knowing it has passed rigorous inspections for reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need an ignition ballast resistor?
If your ignition system has breaker points, it is recommended to use an ignition ballast resistor. Removing the ballast resistor can result in reduced point life and potential failure due to higher amperage damaging the points.
2. What happens when a ballast resistor goes bad?
When a ballast resistor goes bad, it can lead to hard starting of the engine, especially when it is cold. The faulty resistor may not allow enough voltage to reach the ignition coil, resulting in a weak spark and difficulty in starting the engine.
3. Will a car start with a bad ballast resistor?
A car may experience difficulty starting or not start at all if the ignition coil ballast resistor is faulty. Engine misfires and a rough running engine with a loss of power can also be signs of a damaged ballast resistor.
4. What happens if you run a coil without a resistor?
Running a ballast-type coil without a ballast resistor in a standard ignition system can cause excessive current flow, leading to premature wear of the points and potentially reducing the coil's lifespan.
5. What are signs of a bad ballast resistor?
Signs of a bad ballast resistor include misfiring, rough idling, and weak spark resulting in incomplete combustion. These symptoms occur due to insufficient voltage reaching the ignition coil caused by a faulty resistor.
6. What are the signs that a resistor is defective?
Signs of a defective resistor can include a busted body, cracks, color change, open or short circuit behavior, value change due to excessive heat, or being broken.
7. What are the symptoms of a bad ballast?
Symptoms of a bad ballast include changing colors, buzzing, and dimming lights. Delayed start, low light output, inconsistent lighting levels, swollen casing, or burn marks on the ballast can also indicate damage.
During our ignition ballast resistor research, we found 24 ignition ballast resistor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,228 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ignition ballast resistors list. We found that most customers choose ignition ballast resistors with an average price of $16.59.
The ignition ballast resistors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ignition ballast resistors, including Standard Motor Products, PartCatalog, Speedway Motors, Bosch, Crown Automotive. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.