Hot ignition coil.

[Ryan_289]

I had an issue a several days ago.  My jeep started running rough and I started checking wires and the ignition coil was hot to the touch.  I purchased a new one and it was still running rough so we changed the condenser and that seems to have fixed my running issue.  2 nights ago we drove the jeep around for around 30 minutes or so and when I got back I felt of the new coil and its still getting hot.  Its mounted to the block, do you think it could be getting heat from their?  Everything seems to be running right, I just didnt think ignition coils were supposed to get hot like that.  Does anyone elses coil get hot?

[athawk11]

Hi Ryan,
At some point, I read that mounting the coil higher in the bracket helps to keep them cool, so engine heat probably does contribute to them getting warm. 

Can't say I've ever touched it after a drive.  I do have a block mounted coil.  In preparation for the BHR 2016, I'll be doing a few 'shake down' runs this weekend.  I'll make a point to put my hand on it and report back.

Tim

[Ryan_289]

I went to the parts store today at lunch and picked up a spare set of points and condenser and was talking to the old man about it.� He said that since my coil was an internal resisted coil that it would be on the hot side.� Said as long as I could keep my hands on it to not worry about it.

I would still be curious as to what others are seeing.  Next time I drive it I will shoot it with my thermometer and check temps.

[JimVillers]

Ryan .... How "hot" is hot.  Warm to the touch is normal.  Check the resistance with a digital Ohm meter.  It should have an internal ballast resistor and measure 4-5 ohm.  If it measures 1 ohm or less, you have an incorrect coil and it will run VERY hot until it fails.