Ballast Resistor

[Lever]

I have searched all the threads on this subject with no luck finding what I need. That is; does anyone know of a replacement ballast resistor with the proper rating (10w, 1.5 ohms from what I've read). Perhaps an automotive resistor that will work? Is this a common stock item at say 'radio shack'?

I purchased the engine from a guy at work. I was told it's from a 78 XS1100. I'm putting it into a golf cart. I've tested the coils. The primary resistance is 1.7 ohms. So, it matches that year. I did not get the resistor with it and, not wanting to fry my coils, will need to have the 'in-line' resistor.

Lastly, I'm wanting to fire it up for the first time. Can I do that on a short run without harming the coils or should I wait until I get the resistor?

[Just In Case]

Hi. If you can't find the correct one, you can try three 1 ohm 10 watt resistors from Radio Shack or whatever. A 1.5 ohm resistor isn't standard. Perhaps a car ballast resistor will do, but I don't know how to test for their wattage, well it can be worked out.

Put 2 in parallel, ie side by side and solder their ends together, that will give you 0.5 ohms, then add the other 1 ohm resistor to one end of the pair so you get 1.5 ohms in total.

The whole thing needs the bare wires to be insulated, but cooling air will need to get around the resistors bodies.

I've just done some figuring and if the current through the resistors is steady, there is 30 watts of heat produced. However as the ignition is pulsing, there isn't current flowing all the time, so the heat produced is less.

I don't think you should run the engine without the ballast resistor installed as the current will be twice as much, this could overheat the primary windings and/or damage the TCI output transistors, and result in mucho mouth foam

David

[Lever]

Just In Case: Thanks for quick reply! I'll try that.

For everyone else; please don't hesitate to send other great ideas for this scenario.

[randy]

Yes,

An automotive resistor will work. In my area, NAPA and Autobarn have them on the wall, in the HELP (Motormite) section.

[Just In Case]

Wasn't sure about the automotive ones. Just to clarify, I meant that a 1.5 ohm resistor isn't a standard part from places like Radio Shack.

Wish me luck, it's Sunday am here, I got my overalls on and I'm about to change plugs, oil, check the cam chain and air filter on my beast

Then a check ride.... yeah that's it.... check ride

Cheers
David

[andreashweiss]

I have the stock ballast resisters (several) if you need one. From 78-80 xs1100 bikes. andreashweiss@yahoo.com

[Lever]

Thanks to every one for their replys.

anreahwisss...wish..wishesesiseses..dude: Thanks for the offer. May take you up on it. I did the radio shack trick which is kinda getto looking but it works. Best part; I heard it run for the first time! Cost was about $5 and it was worth it. Now I think I'll try to find one at NAPA (thanks randy) for final installation. If that doesn't work out I'll take you up on your offer....provided the price is right! Speaking of price, please let me know what it is. If the price is right I'll just go with it.

Right now I've got to do the following fabrication for just the engine/tranny:
- Exhaust to fit (lots of cutting and welding)
- Throttle
- Drive line
- Frame to mount coils
- Clutch
- Shifter

I'll post some pics once I get that bad boy all hooked up and ready to actually move something! I think I may want to have some brakes too .

[Geezer]

What part of Portland are you in? I'd sure like to see that rig. I might have an idea or 2 on how to do some of that.

Geezer

[mro]

I'm putting it into a golf cart.

Right now I've got to do the following fabrication for just the engine/tranny:
- Exhaust to fit (lots of cutting and welding)
- Throttle
- Drive line
- Frame to mount coils
- Clutch
- Shifter
Roll cage and 5 point harness ???

90 HP golf cart



mro

[Lever]

Geezer, other side of the city but, relatively speaking, not to far away; Troutdale. Just up the hill from the outlet mall.

E-mail me at sstrick503@verizon.net if you want to come check it out & we'll hook up. Include your phone # (if not on your web page). I'll send you an e-mail from your web page too.

[andreashweiss]

$6.00 price includes shipping continental USA andreas

[Lever]

Andreas, sounds good to me. E-mail be at the post above with your address so I can send you payment. - Thanks.

[Lever]

Here's a few pics from my build:
[IMG] [/IMG]

[Lever]

Well, one anyway.

[JWSanders]

That's quite interesting. I was considering putting my spare 11 engine in a bigger 4-wheeler type off-road vehicle. Something like this, but maybe a little bigger:


How are you considering the cooling of the engine?

At the very least you'll need an oil cooler, but the engine will still need a good flow of air to stay cool. These babys run warm. I have been thinking that a larger oil cooler radiator placed forward will help a lot, but I'm not sure if it will be enough. Not sure how much extra oil the engine can pump, either.

The elecrtical output of the alternator on the 11 is kinda tepid, too. I have considered a mod to the rotor to tie in a conventional car alternator, probably pulley driven. I'll need a lot of extra power for lights and such. Possibly even a electric radiator fan in front of the motor, too. The stock 11 alt only puts out around 290 watts total, and that's only at higher RPM's. Barely enough for a good radio, let alone a lightbar.

Something to consider