Ballest resistor on 302 info needed

[MrCrispy]

I am very new to ford engines. I recently bought a v8 trike that is all 89 mustang running gear. It has a high rise intake with a Holley 650 carb, has a Mallory magnetic breakerless distributor. The coil is mounted to the head with a ballest resistor next to it. The question I have is, do I need the ballest resistor or not. I have had some people tell me I don't need it and some tell me I do. I am going to rewire my trike this winter as it's a total rat's nest of wiring, there is not one relay used. (No wonder the guy who I bought the trike off had problems)
So do i need the ballest or not???
Also it has 4 wires on the alternator, I would like to switch to a 1 wire alternator to help keep the wiring to a minimum. Any info and recommendations about, what one to go with, wiring and any other info would be most helpful.
Thanks for taking the time to read this

 

[Noobz347]

If you are still using a points system, you should seriously consider swapping over to an electronic ignition. Then you can do away with the ballast resistor.

 

[General karthief]

I would call the tech line at mallory and see what they say, here is a guide for the unilite distributor, is that what you have?
http://www.manualsdir.com/manuals/3...r-mallory-unilite-distributor-605.html?page=2
Google can be your friend.

 

[General karthief]

Here is a thread from the past
https://www.stangnet.com/mustang-forums/threads/ballast-resistor-and-mallory-distributor.886347/