Is it normal for the ignition coil to get really hot? This is a 394 old eng from 61'. Now it gets pretty hot, to the point that it can not be touched.
that's not normal looks like you need a voltage resistor or a coil with a built in resistor. easiest swap is a VW blue coil should eliminate all the problems. Another thing it helps to give us more info as to what it is installed in, type of wiring used, such as new , old or original. the more info the better to diagnose your problem
What he said.... Original wiring? A coil shouldn't be too hot to touch, too much voltage causes heat. Eventually it will fail. Initally you'll notice the engine missing at higher RPM, over time the RPM range drops until failure occurs. Sounds like you need a ballast resistor. 1955 to 1964 Chevy shown. (NAPA p/n ICR-13) Olds is probably the same. You've seen 'em on the firewall. Installs in the wire between the ignition switch and the coil. Direction doesn't matter (swaps end for end) Volkswagen blue coils are the best.
If your coil is too hot the first question comes to mind is, did you just replace it and mix up the wires?
A points ignition needs about 3-5 ohms for best spark and point life.Most if not all GM 12 coils are 1.5 ohms as measured across the two small primary terminals.So you need a ballast resistor of 1.5 ohms.Mesaure the ohms of the coil ya got now to be sure.By the way,most 6 volt coils are 1.5 ohms also. Many 12 volt points ignitions on US engines have a bypass for the resistor when the starter motor is engaged.This keeps the voltage to the coil up when the starter tries to suck it down.If a coil with a built in resistor is used,it may cause difficult starting when hot or very cold on some engines.Or it may be ok.
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