Working on a friends 66' shovelhead / custom that he inherited. It has been in storage for 4 years. I'm not familiar with these bikes/ systems.
I'm not getting any spark, tested the e-spark ignition module (unilite distributor). It looks new but fails the voltage test (always stays below 2v at negative side of coil, blocked or unblocked.) New coil, also tested with old coil. Also bench tested the module with both coils, no spark.
So i ordered a new module and instructions say I "need" to run a ballast resistor between ignition and positive side of coil. Is not having that resistor a probable reason for pre-mature failure of the module?
I would normally just do as the instructions state and run the resistor, but I'm told the guy who built this bike really knew what he was doing, I don't but I'm learning!
As always, any help greatly appreciated!!

 

that distributor is junk - had so many issues with them with parts they wont take back new that did not work


I will look at my instruction sheet and tell you what I think tonight

 

The ballast resistor is for cars only Mallory makes poor instructions .I called them and he said bike coils have different resistance and it is not needed But not clear in instructions Nothing about bikes don't need it Which is why I had to call Mallory

 

I havent used a Mallory ignition but have heard that once fitted they are very good systems,
but I will say, that on an early BOYER BRANSON ignition I fitted to my MK2 Norton Commando back in 79, that the coils & I think the 'Black Box'
was wired through a ballast to drop the voltage feeding it from 12v to 6v..for what reason I have no idea as to me Elec-trickery is magic to me ...
as said I have never used a Mallory system but could it work in the same way ?