When it comes to wiring your classic car or hot rod, proper planning is key. Scott Bowers, President at Ron Francis Wiring, shares his insights on what you’ll need and how to approach your next wiring project. With decades of experience and a passion for helping enthusiasts tackle just about any complex wiring project, Scott’s advice is invaluable for anyone looking to upgrade their vehicle’s electrical system.

Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the necessary tools. A good crimping tool is essential for making secure connections. Scott stresses that a cheap crimping tool can lead to poor crimps, which can cause electrical issues down the road. Invest in a quality tool that can properly compress terminals. A ratcheting crimping tool is ideal, as it ensures a consistent crimp every time.

You’ll also need wire strippers, diagonal cutters, and a multimeter for troubleshooting. A soldering iron and heat shrink tubing can be useful for adding extra protection to connections. Don’t forget a roll of electrical tape and a bundle of zip ties for securing wires out of the way.

In terms of supplies, have plenty of electrical tape and heat shrink tubing on hand. Consider a wiring harness repair kit, which usually includes assorted terminals, wire, and tape. These kits can be a lifesaver if you need to repair a damaged section of your harness. It’s also a good idea to have some extra fuses and relays on hand, in case you need to replace any during the installation.

Choose the Right Wiring Harness

Ron Francis Wiring offers both front-loading and pre-wired harnesses. Front-loading harnesses, like their Express Kit, come with labeled bags of wires. This system allows you to work on one circuit at a time, reducing clutter and making it easier to pick up where you left off. It’s ideal for DIYers who may only have a few hours to work on their project at a time.

Pre-wired harnesses, on the other hand, have a more traditional layout. While they can be more overwhelming, experienced installers may prefer this type. They allow you to see the entire harness at once and work on multiple circuits simultaneously. Consider your comfort level, the complexity of your project, and whether you prefer working on one circuit at a time or tackling the entire harness at once. Both styles have their advantages, and the key is choosing the one that best fits your needs and working style.

Plan for the Future

One of Scott’s key tips is to plan for future electrical needs. Even if you don’t have power windows or a stereo now, consider adding extra circuits for potential upgrades. It’s much easier to run those wires now than to try and add them later. Think about your long-term vision for the car. Will you add air conditioning, electric fans, or a high-powered stereo? Having those extra circuits ready will save you headaches down the road.

Make a list of all the components you plan to install, both now and in the future. This will help you determine how many circuits and fuses you’ll need. Don’t be afraid to overestimate a bit – it’s always better to have a few spare circuits than to run out of room on your fuse panel. Consider creating a simple diagram or spreadsheet to keep track of your planned circuits and components. Thinking ahead on your current wiring project can save time and materials for your next one.

Configure Your Harness

Unlike some “universal” kits, Ron Francis Wiring can tailor its harnesses to your specific alternator, distributor, and steering column. This ensures a clean, plug-and-play installation without the need for adapters. Be sure to specify these components when ordering your harness. The extra upfront planning will pay off during the installation, saving you time and frustration.

Best Practices for Installation

When it comes to running wires, resist the temptation to take shortcuts for the sake of appearance. Avoid routing wires through tight spaces or up through the headliner, as this can make troubleshooting and repairs difficult. Instead, follow established paths like the frame rails or inside grommets. Use a wire loom or braiding to protect wires from abrasion and heat. Secure wires with zip ties every 6-12 inches to keep them tidy and prevent damage.

Keep wires as short as possible. The longer the wire, the more resistance it has, which can impact performance. Ron Francis pre-sizes its wires to account for length, but adding unnecessary length can still cause issues. If you do need to add length, use the correct gauge wire and try to keep splices to a minimum. Avoid running wires too close to heat sources like the exhaust or radiator.

The Importance of Good Grounds

A good ground is just as important as a good connection. Scott stresses that the ground is 50% of the circuit. Don’t rely solely on the frame for grounding – use heavy gauge battery cables to ground the battery directly to the engine block or bell housing. This ensures a solid path to ground and reduces the risk of electrical noise or faults.

Grounding terminal strips are another way to ensure good connections for ground wires.

If you have components in the trunk, run a dedicated ground wire instead of relying on the frame. This ensures a solid path to ground and reduces the risk of electrical noise or faults. Use a large enough gauge wire to handle the amperage of the component, and secure the wire with zip ties to prevent damage. Avoid grounding to the bumper or other tinsel-like components – these can introduce resistance into the circuit.

Ensuring solid battery connections for both the ground and power cables can prevent future problem chasing.

Crimps and Connections

A good crimp is vital for a reliable electrical system. Look for a crimp that’s tight and has good wire penetration. Avoid crimps that are loose or have exposed wire, as these can fail over time. When possible, solder and heat shrink connections for extra protection. This is especially important for high-amperage circuits or in environments exposed to moisture.

Work Clean and Stay Organized

A clean workspace and organized wiring kit can make the installation process much easier. Start by laying out all the components of your wiring kit and familiarizing yourself with the instructions and diagrams. Break the project down into smaller tasks – for example, start with the main power feeds, then move on to the ignition system, and finally, hook up accessories like lights and wipers.

Staying organized allows the install to go smoothly, but also makes solving problems in the future much easier and less time consuming.

Use a wiring diagram to keep track of which wires go where. Color-code wires as you go, to prevent mix-ups. If you need to stop for the day, label any wires you’re in the middle of installing so you can quickly pick up where you left off.

With the right tools, supplies, and mindset, you can tackle your wiring project with confidence. Remember to plan for the future, configure your harness to your current and future needs, and follow best practices for installation. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re unsure – the experts at Ron Francis Wiring are always available to guide you through your next wiring project. With patience and attention to detail, you can create a reliable, high-performance electrical system that will serve you well for years to come.