Questions and Answers

Universal Ignition Coils Q. I am replacing ignition parts on my car. QUESTION: I am told that the primary and secondary coil terminals must be connected in proper order. One is connected to the hot side (battery/ignition switch) and one is connected to the point side of the distributor.

This implies that the coils are wired internally to match positive and negative ground cars. Yet, auto shops, such as Auto Quest, sell only one "universal" 6 volt coil for use without ballast resistor. None of the modern or historic literature I can find addresses this issue. Can you tell me the rule that governs how to connect a coil given a cars polarity?

1. 1929 Graham-Paige, Model 612
2. 6 cylinder
3. Three speed Warner transmission
4. 19,000 miles
5. Carter BB-1 carburetor
6. 6 volt positive ground
7. Conventional Delco-Remy breaker point distributor with induction coil without ballast resistor

Thank you,
Burke

A. I have a picture of a basic ignition system here. As you stated, power goes in one side and out the other. Does it really matter which way it comes in and goes out? In general, no. But, it is advisable to connect the coil according to the + and - marks on the coil.

In cases where there is a difference, such as with most japanese cars, one terminal will be larger than the other to indicate the proper polarity and prevent incorrect connections.

Universal coils have no distinction. You can hook it up either way and it will still work.