57 Chevy wire question

Hey all...

I'm trying to clean up the wiring in my car while I don't have an engine in there. There is what seems to be a block style resistor on the fire wall that a green wire goes into and then out to the starter. This is broken on my car. Do you all know where to get a replacement resistor? Do I need it?

Thanks,


Pilot

 

i think thjat's an ignition ballast resistor. it lowers the voltage to the coil down to about 8 volts so it saves on the points. the wire going to the starter is a bypass wire so the coil gets full 12 volts while starting. yes,you need it. just get one at NAPA. if the book doesn't go back that far,just ask for 66 chevy impala 283....that's what i ask for when i get one

 

unless your going to run an hei. then just do away with it. hei needs the full 12 volts. and hook the wire to the starter up or you will have to let off the key before it will start.

 

Great! Thanks for the help! Don't think I'll do HEI right away, but its in the future.

 

Not sure on the 57 but on the 56 an HEI fit with no problem. My buddy was going to give me one, but I didn't like the look and went to the autoparts store and got a dist. for a late 60's nova for $35 (rebuilt with points).