1966 ballast resistor

[Patrick H.]

Hello,

Does anyone happen to know if the currently available ballast resistors for my 1966 327/350 differ in configuration from the originals? Ballast resistors are not my area of expertise, but I do know that the ones for solid axle cars are not correct. I'm just now sure if the same is true of mid years.

Thanks,

Patrick

[Joe C.]

Re: 1966 ballast resistor

Patrick:

Most of the ballasts available in the Corvette parts houses are in no way like the originals. You might try John Pirkle--last time I spoke to him, he had a pretty good supply of original style pieces, which were service replacements up until a couple years ago, when they were discontinued. The only difference from original with these, is the absence of the small tab on the mounting clip--most judges will not even miss it.

Joe

[Jack H.]

Re: 1966 ballast resistor

Currently available 'correct' reproduction ballast resistors (source = Shafer's Classic Reproductions) are EXCELLENT copies of what GM last sold as service replacement components. They differ (depending on unit; 0.3-ohm vs. 1.8-ohm) from original ballasts used on the final line in several areas:

(1) There's only one style/geometry of the ceramic body and production ballasts went through several running changes over the years as to how the ceramic was molded.

(2) The mounting band that Joe refered to also went through several running changes and the repro ballast represents only one variation.

(3) Mounting hardware is slightly different, but few judges are knowledgable enough to detect this AND the orientation of the resistor (bolted against the fire wall) defies back-side examination.

The repro's are excellent electrical components that will work well for you. But, if you want a correct/original for your car, then you'd best know all the little nuiassances of the part's running change history, shop eBay/swap meets and KNOW what you're buying and then be prepared to bend over on price.... For the point or two originality consequence, you have to be REALLY SERIOUS about your restoration to want anything other than the current repop ballast!

[Shane G.]

Re: 1966 ballast resistor

Check the archives for a post called: Ballast Resistor Comparison Photo on
Monday, 8 April 2002 - there is some good info on the subject there as well as a photo showing some configuration differences.

[Patrick H.]

Thanks!!! *NM*

[Brandon K.]

Shafer's Classic Reproductions

Hi. How does one contact Shafer's Classic Reproductions to get one of their resistors?

thanks, Brandon

[Jack H.]

Re: Shafer's Classic Reproductions

Their product is now carried in just about every major Corvette Catalog at VERY reasonable prices including Corvette Central and Chicago Corvette. Don't expect a no-deduct concours score on the judging field, but DO expect a very nice looking & reliable component that will generate partial credit depending on the year of your car, Etc.....

[John H.]

Re: Shafer's Classic Reproductions

www.shafersclassic.com