Resistor getting hot and smoking?

Used Sparex brand kit, Double checked everything

Everything is hooked up according to the Sparex diagram.

The tractor starts and runs fine.

The problem occures when I turn the key to the on position, If I don't start it right away the
resistor starts getting red hot and smokes.

Anybody know whats going on?

With the engine stopped and the points closed, full current, limited only by the DC resistance of the coil windings, and the resistance of the ignition resistor flows through the circuit. With the engine started, there is only about a 42% duty cycle of current flow in the system due to the action of the breaker points opening twice per engine revolution, and remaining closed for only about 38 degrees of distributor rotation each time. (Dwell angle.)

Therefore, the AVERAGE current through the resistor with the engine running is only about 42% the crruent with the engine stopped.

I'm assuming you are using the oem coil, and the dropping resistor supplied by the manufacturer.

If it is a side mount, the dropping resistor and the 6v oem coil should be all you need.
Keep in mind that when new.. there may be a bit of oil, etc that flashes off the first few times the resistor gets hot. Though I don't think red hot is correct.. the ifnition dropping resistor on my NAA is physically hot to the touch after running for a few minutes.

If it is a front mount.. you will need the oem ballast resistor and the dropping resistor in line.

Alternately.. you could get a real 12v side mount coil, or front mount coil.

For the side mount.. I think a napa ic-14 is a universal 12v coil, and needs no external resistor, though I'm sur ehte parts store here, and other online dealers have both the side mount and front mount 12v coils.

Does it start and run fine? If so.. I would guess it is normal.. unless it is a front mount, and you have not included the ballast resistor. If there was a short after the resistor.. i doubt it would start and run.

let us know some more details.

Soundguy