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Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Tue Nov 28, 2017 9:50 pm
by Dave_Car_Guy
I'm going back down the path of potentially tearing my car apart and doing a full resto. One item that has always held me back is the fear of wiring, wiring harnesses, etc. Just how difficult is the process of replacing the entire system? Assuming I document the tear down, mark each wire and connection with a number, etc., what other issues does one run into on this? Is it easier to do the new wiring in a full body-off, frame-up restoration, given the ease of access under body and dash? Sorry if this is a really dumb question, but I'm looking at this from the 10,000 foot view. I've read many of the forum topics on wiring harnesses and breadboards, etc, but some of the info is at a more detailed level for specific wiring issues and needs.
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Tue Nov 28, 2017 10:03 pm
by fj20spl311
If you buy a complete set of harness from someone - Curtis maybe. It should be very easy.
I highly suggest you download the CUSTOM Color 1968 wiring diagram and take it to a printer and have them print and laminate a 24" x 60" copy.
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Tue Nov 28, 2017 10:05 pm
by fj20spl311
Custom Color WIKI diagram
You can also print it out in a 8 page PDF format and tape together.
IMHO, pictures are better than labels
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Tue Nov 28, 2017 11:09 pm
by theunz
Documentation is everything when redoing wiring. Label EVERY connection and take pictures, lots and lots of pictures! Since the wires are color coded it's much easier than one would think. I think you will be surprised at how much of your wire is still in excellent shape, unless of course there has been a major meltdown
If Curtis can supply you with new harnesses it will be pretty much straight forward. If you can't source all the various harnesses you need than you will want to be very careful with the connectors as they can become brittle and just crumble in your hands. Vintage connectors is the go to guy for replacement connectors. If you get confused than remember that the manufacturers don't waste any wire and each wire will just reach its termination point. Also remember to rewrap any wires you undo with friction tape, not electrical tape as it won't hold up to the elements. Good luck with your project.
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Wed Nov 29, 2017 12:42 am
by Dave_Car_Guy
Good advice guys, thanks. FJ20: it is exactly that diagram I have been reviewing that scares the bajeezus outta me. So like theunz says, I guess I need to take lots of photos!!
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Wed Nov 29, 2017 7:29 am
by bobd
Some people are more comfortable with wiring than others. Your level of confidence should decide your approach. Replacing connectors, if done one at a time, will be the least complicated and usually gives very good results, but will slightly shorten the harness. New harnesses would be more costly, but should cure any wiring related problems. More complicated would be unwrapping the harnesses and repairing or replacing any damaged wires and connectors.
The enlarges schematics are very helpful, but due to age, previous repairs, or year/model overlap, may not be totally correct for your car.
I had to go back and forth between 3 different schematics to find the color codes and circuits to fit my '69.
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Wed Nov 29, 2017 11:40 am
by Linda
Unless you like the challenge, and the
points that come with doing your own work
, I would buy the harness that Curtis makes. Based on the starter harness he makes that I have, better wire, better crimps, better wrap, heat resistant sleeving. I would have to source those better materials then execute correctly. Not impossible on that little harness but the whole main ? Again, doable, but his would be a better product , in my opinion.
Not paid for this endorsement!
Linda
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Wed Nov 29, 2017 1:17 pm
by Curtis
Re: Writing Harness: just how difficult?
Posted: Wed Nov 29, 2017 9:03 pm
by Dave_Car_Guy
Thanks Curtis, great stuff. Your wiring is legendary! And yes, Linda, there is no doubt my intent would be to be buying an entirely new wiring harness from Curtis, I certainly don't intend to build one myself, as I am a big believer in letting specialist specialize. Curtis' schematics are a great resource for me if and when I do decide to pursue this endeavor. OR: I buy the harness and hire someone else to install the whole thing while I focus on other parts of the restoration that I am capable of and confident in.