Diagnosing and Replacing the Ignition Coil on a 1964-1966 TVR Griffith
Understanding this simple but critical part is key to keeping your Griffith’s Ford V8 engine firing reliably.
- Symptoms like misfiring, backfiring, or a no-start condition often point to a failing ignition coil.
- The ignition system is based on the Ford 289 V8; parts are shared with common Ford models of the era, like the Mustang.
- Standard Ignition is a reputable aftermarket brand that offers a reliable replacement for the original coil.
- It is critical to determine if your car uses a ballast resistor and choose a compatible replacement coil.
Is Your Ignition Coil Failing?
For a car as unique as the TVR Griffith, keeping the Ford V8 heart beating is the top priority. The ignition coil is a common failure point on older vehicles, but the symptoms are usually clear. A failing coil can leave you stranded, so it's important to recognize the warning signs.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil
- Engine Misfires: The car may jerk, sputter, or shake, especially under acceleration. This happens because one or more cylinders aren't firing correctly due to weak or inconsistent spark.
- Hard Starting or No-Start: A weak or dead coil won't provide the necessary voltage to start the engine. You might hear the engine crank over but it will refuse to fire up. 🎬 Watch: How to test a classic Ford ignition coil
- Rough Idle: The engine may vibrate or run unevenly when stopped.
- Backfiring: Loud pops from the exhaust can occur when unburned fuel ignites in the exhaust system. This is a sign of an inefficient ignition and can damage your exhaust.
- Loss of Power: The car may feel sluggish and unresponsive because the engine isn't producing full power.
- Worsening Fuel Economy: When spark is weak, the engine runs inefficiently, often burning more fuel to compensate.
A Note on Ballast Resistors
The original Ford ignition systems from this era often used a ballast resistor or a special "pink resistor wire" in the circuit leading to the coil. This wire reduces the voltage to the coil during normal running to prevent it from overheating. When choosing a new coil, it is critical to know if your car has this system. Some modern coils are designed for a full 12 volts and will not work correctly with a resistor, while others require the resistor to function properly. Always check your vehicle's specific wiring before ordering.
🎬 See how to identify if your car has a ballast resistorChoosing the Right Aftermarket Coil
Finding a "new old stock" (NOS) or original OEM Ford or Lucas coil from the 1960s is not a practical or recommended path. Decades-old electrical components are not reliable. A modern aftermarket coil from a quality brand offers superior reliability and performance.
Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition):
Standard Ignition is a well-established American brand with a long history of producing reliable, OE-quality ignition components. For decades, mechanics have trusted Standard for parts that fit and function correctly. For a classic and straightforward application like the Ford 289 V8 in your Griffith, a Standard coil is a dependable and correct choice that meets or exceeds the original specifications.
Cost of Aftermarket Ignition Coils (1964-1966 TVR Griffith)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (e.g., Standard Ignition) | $35.81 | The most common and recommended option. |
| New OEM | Not Available | Original 1960s parts are no longer manufactured. |
| Used OEM | Varies (Not Recommended) | A 60-year-old used electrical part is not reliable. |
Pro Tip: Check Your Connections
Before replacing the coil, take a moment to inspect the wiring. On a classic car, simple issues like a loose or corroded wire at the coil terminals or a bad ground can mimic coil failure. One TVR owner found that simply cleaning a connector on the distributor module solved their no-start issue after they had already replaced the coil. Cleaning the connections is a free and easy first step in troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the ignition coil myself?
Yes, this is a very easy job for a DIY mechanic. The ignition coil on a Ford 289 is typically mounted to the engine with a simple bracket and held by one or two bolts. It has two small electrical wires and one large high-tension lead going to the distributor. The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
🎬 Watch this quick walkthrough on how to change your coilDo I need a special coil for a TVR Griffith?
No. You need a coil that is correct for the 1964-1966 Ford 289 V8 engine that powers the car. The key is to match the coil to the ignition system, specifically whether it uses an external ballast resistor.
What is a ballast resistor and why does it matter?
A ballast resistor is a ceramic block or a special wire that reduces voltage to the ignition coil after the engine has started. This was done to prolong the life of the ignition points and the coil itself. Using a coil designed for a resistor with a full 12V source can cause it to overheat and fail prematurely. Conversely, using a 12V-only coil on a system with a resistor will result in a weak spark and poor performance.
Is a more expensive, high-voltage coil better?
Not necessarily. For a stock or lightly modified Ford 289, a standard replacement coil (like one from Standard Ignition) that is correct for the system (with or without a resistor) is perfectly adequate. High-output coils (e.g., 45,000 volts) are designed for high-performance or racing applications and may not provide any benefit on a stock engine. Sticking with the correct standard replacement is the most reliable choice.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The primary technical consideration is whether the coil is designed for an ignition system with an external ballast resistor or for a direct 12-volt source. The 1964-1966 TVR Griffith uses a canister-style coil as part of its Ford 289 V8 engine's conventional distributor-based ignition system.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Ignition Coil Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil
- A Note on Ballast Resistors
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Coil
- Cost of Aftermarket Ignition Coils (1964-1966 TVR Griffith)
- Pro Tip: Check Your Connections
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off