Burnt Coil = Mystery Smell

[428street]

ok, so I got lucky yesterday and then I got even luckier...

I did my normal take the car out of the garage warm it up and then move it down the bottom of my driveway because the boss doesn't like the smell to much. So being a law abiding, peace keeping husband I did that yesterday as well.

I get in the car, put it in reverse, hit the gas to back up and the car dies! Usually I have been able to get out of any situation rather quickly. I have been "learning" how to start the car as each car has it's own sweet spot of start-up routine. Well nothing I did worked and I had a gut feeling that there was something more serious.

As I am walking up my driveway a guy who I didn't know parks his car and comes over towards my car and introduces himself. He immediately asks what make the car is and I told him. Come to find out he is good friends with one of the "founders" years ago of ERA now living in Florida. Don't remember his name off the top of my head.

He knew very well of Peter's original car and his first replica. He thought this was his car! Then I had to explain to him that I absolutely loved the car but today was not a good day. I was stuck on the bottom of my driveway and the car would not start.

Now as many of you know I am a super detail guy but I am not any where near a "seasoned" mechanic. I know enough to be dangerous but thats about it. Well, he went back home, got his tester and ended up spending at least an hour with me troubleshooting. I learned a TON and now feel comfortable being able to troubleshoot if need be.

To make a long story short, we found the coil I had burnt out and tar coming out of the top. Luckily I had a used spare. Replaced it, and it fired right up. Now that is awesome. BTW, this guy has about 10-12 cars.

Ok, now for my question. Do I need a resistor? I did not have one and the guy said that this is probably the reason why this coil burnt. He said it is also probably the smell I was getting as well. Won't know until I go for a long drive but I'm fairly certain it was the problem.

I believe I spoke to Doug about needing a resistor and he said no. I have a Pertronix's ignition, stock coil, and distributor as back ground info..

Bob, electrical guys?