hi i was checking how much volts i get at the coil and the ballast resistor and with my multimeter i only get a reading of 3.8V does this sound right i thought it was supposed to be 12V

but there is no problem in engine starting or anything i was just checking how much my carb auto choke was getting!

Thanks!

Ballast resistor reduces voltage, that is its purpose, because points cannot handle 12v for more than a few seconds.

If you are using points distributor, connect e-choke to the 12v side of the resistor.

Are you testing it with it running? Multimeters wont give as meaningful reading with pulsating current. With the ignition on and the points closed it should read around 6 volts but your points will get hot. If you google kettering point ignition you'll find out about how it all works.

i tried with it running and not running and both gave me readings of 3.8V

No worries.