Massive cage problem in Indiana (Page 2 of 2)

It has a factory transistor ignition unit and magnetic pick up coil.  The problem is somewhere in the wiring harness.  I can unplug the TIU, distributor, etc and it doesn't matter.  I only get 10.5V to the coil before the ballast resistor.  That should be 12.5V.  The resistor knocks the voltage down to 7-8V normally, but due to our issue, the voltage to the coil is only 2.5.  When I unplug the wire that bypasses the coil during cranking, the voltage is correct at 12.5V to the resistor, but it remains 12.5V to the coil which is bad and will cook it.  That's what I'm trying to avoid.  The resistor checks out, as does every component, per the factory service manual.  The resistance through the harness is within spec as well.  I have a short somewhere, I just can't find it.  I have tried to run direct wires to bypass the harness, but I get the same result.  I really don't know where to look next.  It will start and run, but I know the coil will be short lived if I don't find the problem.  It can only handle around 8V sustained input.

Thanks for the tip.  I will see if I can clean every connector with contact cleaner.

You may need a ballast resistor in the coil's run circuit. Give it full batt voltage during cranking, but push run current through the resistor. Chrysler units from the 70's are cheap and available at most parts stores. I use one in my Triumph.