Blaster 2 Coil, .7 Ohm, 45000 Volt, Oil Filled

OVERVIEW

When it comes to unleashing the full potential of your air-cooled engine, the MSD Ignition Blaster 2 Coil stands as the industry standard for performance and reliability. Designed to deliver a massive 45,000 volts of spark energy, this iconic red canister coil ensures that every drop of fuel in your combustion chamber is ignited efficiently, even under high-load or high-RPM conditions. For Volkswagen enthusiasts, upgrading to an MSD Blaster 2 means smoother idling, crisper throttle response, and a significant reduction in spark blowout. Whether you are cruising the strip in a Cal-Look Beetle or tackling the dunes in a high-performance sand rail, the Blaster 2 provides the consistent, high-voltage output required to keep your flat-four or flat-six running at its absolute peak. Its oil-filled construction is specifically engineered for superior cooling, making it the ideal choice for the harsh, high-heat environments often found in air-cooled engine bays where airflow can be limited.

The secret to the Blaster 2''s longevity and performance lies in its premium internal components and robust build quality. Unlike inferior epoxy-filled coils that can develop internal hot spots and eventually crack, the oil-filled design of the MSD 8202 allows for better heat dissipation across the entire coil body. This is a critical advantage for long-distance hauls in a Type 2 Bus or endurance sessions in a Baja Bug. The primary resistance of 0.7 ohms is optimized for use with MSD 6-Series ignition boxes, but it remains versatile enough to be used with stock high-performance distributors or electronic ignition conversions. By providing a longer spark duration and higher voltage than a standard factory coil, the Blaster 2 helps to burn through leaner fuel mixtures and prevents fouling, ensuring that your vintage VW stays on the road and out of the shop. When you choose MSD from Appletree Auto, you are investing in decades of ignition expertise and a product that has been proven on both the street and the track.

FITMENT

This high-performance ignition coil is a universal-fit component for 12-volt systems and is a favorite for the following applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950-1979 (12V conversion required for early models)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971-1979
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950-1979 (Including Kombi, Microbus, and Transporter)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1955-1974
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961-1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback)
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973-1974
• Custom Air-Cooled Builds: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Manx-style buggies, and Trikes
• Note: While universal, mounting may require a standard 2-1/8 inch coil bracket.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the MSD 8202 Blaster 2 Coil:

• Product Brand: MSD Ignition
• Part Number: 8202
• Primary Resistance: 0.700 Ohms
• Secondary Resistance: 4.7K Ohms
• Maximum Voltage: 45,000 Volts
• Inductance: 8.0 mH
• Turns Ratio: 100:1
• Peak Current: 140 mA
• Spark Duration: 450 uS
• Internal Construction: Oil-Filled for maximum cooling efficiency
• Housing Material: Metal Canister
• Finish: Iconic MSD Red
• Terminal Type: Female / Socket style (Standard Tower)
• Weight: 1.8 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Use a Ballast Resistor with Points-Style Distributors

If you are running a traditional points-and-condenser distributor rather than an MSD 6-series box or an electronic ignition module (like a Pertronix), it is absolutely vital to use a ballast resistor in line with the positive terminal. Because the Blaster 2 has a low primary resistance of 0.7 ohms, it can pull too much current through your points, leading to premature wear or melting of the contact surfaces. Adding a 0.8 to 1.5 ohm resistor ensures longevity for your points while still allowing the coil to deliver a much stronger spark than a stock unit. Always check your specific ignition system requirements before final wiring.

2. Optimize Your Spark Plug Gaps

One of the greatest benefits of the 45,000-volt output of the Blaster 2 is the ability to run a wider spark plug gap. A wider gap creates a larger, more robust spark kernel, which can significantly improve combustion efficiency and power. For most air-cooled VW engines, we recommend starting with a gap of .035"" to .040"" when using this coil with a performance ignition box. However, keep an eye on your spark plugs during initial testing; if you experience any high-RPM misfires, slightly close the gap. This extra "reach" of the spark is especially helpful in engines with higher compression ratios or those running slightly richer carburetors.

3. Proper Mounting Orientation and Vibration Dampening

While the Blaster 2 is oil-filled to help dissipate heat, the orientation of the coil matters for long-term durability. For the best results in a VW engine bay, mount the coil vertically with the high-voltage tower facing upward. This ensures that the internal windings remain fully submerged in the cooling oil, preventing internal arcing. Additionally, since air-cooled engines are known for their vibration, ensure your mounting bracket is tightened securely and consider using a rubber-cushioned clamp. This prevents the metal canister from rubbing or vibrating against the firewall, which could lead to leaks or electrical grounding issues over time.