The plug caps serve a totally different function. But, while the spark channel is active, the resistors reduce the peak current and elongate the spark event through conservation of energy. Without the resistors little restraint of the spark current occurs, the event is intense but over in a very very short period of time. With resistors, the event occurs at the same voltage, but the current drain is slowed by the resistance to flow and the event duration is extended.
The resistance reduces the voltage available at the gap so the arc will reach the point where there is insufficient voltage to jump the gap sooner, not later.
I guess we continue to disagree. The reader will have to form their own decision as to which of us is correct.
Resistors only reduce voltage when there is current flowing though them. Until the voltage rises enough to from the plasma channel across the spark gap, the resistors do nothing to reduce the voltage as there isn't any current flowing through them. They pass potential unrestrained. After the spark is formed, THEN current flows in the secondary circuit of the coil. The resistors limit the peak current and delay the current flow, thereby extending the spark event.
This is why the spark gap determines the voltage requirements at the plug. And why flashy bench contrived arc tricks don't translate to actual spark benefits in the motor unless the spark gaps are also increased. The coil need only supply enough voltage potential to initiate the plasma conducting channel across the spark gap, as current doesn't flow in the coil secondary until that occurs. Once the plasma channel is formed, less voltage is required to maintain spark channel rather than form it.
