Thread: ignition > coil : voltages/amps plz help!

Hi All
Can anyone put me out of my misery?

I have posted similar questions but this is really bugging me now.
I have been trying to work out if my electronic ignition system and coil suit my rangie. I don’t want to fry the ignition.

I have two questions, (ok more like 2 and a half):
1. The ignition unit voltage seems OK, it runs 8-18 volts,(see below) but the coil current limit for the unit is 4.5 amps, is the good/bad? OK for my Rangie and/or coil or not?

2. I have a GT40r coil with an inline ballast resistor which brings the voltage from the ignition to the coil at 10.2v at idle.
From the ignition to the coil prior to the ballast resistor is 13.5v at idle.
Would I be better to remove the ballast and get a different coil?
OR keep the coil and ballast like it is, it will be fine?
OR something I haven’t considered yet?


I have found the following info on the ignition unit:

Part Number: 700-0231

Operating Voltage
8 to 18 volts, reverse polarity protected, negative or positive ground. Not compatible with 6 volt electrical systems as these may drop below 4 volts during cranking.

Coil Current Limit
4.5 amps (externally limited by ballast resistor on XR700). Internal short circuit protection limit set at 7 amps.

RPM Range
6,000 RPM (RPM range higher for 4 and 6 cylinder engines).

Primary Voltage Output
400 volts (inductive discharge)

Primary Energy Output
60 milijoules with PS20/40 coil.

Peak Spark Gap
60 milliamps with PS20/40 coil.

Spark Duration
300 microseconds at 6,000 RPM

bump :-(