Technical 30s Ford Ignition Resistor

Does the original ignition system on a 37-37 Ford really need the resistor under the dash on the firewall. We have one here that simply will not start unless that is byp***ed and this is the third resistor. Is it possible that these after market(off shore I'm sure) resistors are simply junk. Test light is bright on power, rather dim on outlet. Thanks

 

What are the voltages before and after the coil on the bat side