Electrical - Does this matter??

Fellow HAMBrs. Got a question. My 51 project at one time has been converted over to to 12 volt from a donor 77 Camaro. As I am going back through the mechanics of this thing a recent issue popped up. I hit the brakes and it shuts down the truck. So I figured the pedal assembly is hitting wires in the cab. Theyreeverywhere. More inquiry and its discovered to be arcing up by the distributor cap. I also have AWOL wires in the engine bay? Soooooo........2 schools of thought. Trace the short and fix a few wires?Or replace the whole thing and get a fresh start? Also, does it matter if I went with say a Painless system? Does it matter that the wiring is from the 77 or can I just rewire the whole thing as mentioned before? None of the original wiring is left. Whats the thought here.?

 

Trace the wires and fix the problem first. You might end up rewiring it and having the same problem again if you don't positively identify what the cause is.

 

Chasing electrical gremlins is a pain in the a** (It's part of how I make my house payments). You'll be much happier once you've wired it yourself with a new "universal" kit from one of the major suppliers, 'cause you'll know it was done right and there aren't any electrical fires in your near future. However, this advice may be worth only $0.02 (if that)... vic

 

I hate fixing other peoples problems especially wiring. If it were me I would re-wire the vehicle either with a pre-made harness or run it myself. If you do it yourself spend the time and make a schematic (wire color, guage etc...). First it helps with routing and for future reference in tracing problems. Use good wire, proper guage for circuit and learn to do correct mech. and solder connections if you don't already know how. The pre-made units give you the advantage of already being labled at both ends and use decent connectors and wire.
Fitysix

 

If you go the rewire route and want to purchase a wiring harness/kit-contact "glenn33". He sells Rebel wiring kits and you get a discount for being an alliance member. I just bought a kit a couple of days ago-can't wait to get it. alex

 

thanks guys. ill probably go the rewire route. I just dont know the total condition of the wires and how old they really are.........

 

When in doubt, rip it out and start over
My 0.02

Tuner

 

Good question. I do this for a living and a hobby, wiring hotrods that is. If it were mine or one of my customers I would strongly recomend a rewire and would be using the kit from American Autowire. Slick setup and comes with all the switches you need, and connectors, custom mount for the new fuse box taylored for your exact truck. Even comes with the oldschool OEM loom and connectors for the parklights and tailights. I've done a couple dozen of your style truck and three lately. Of all the kits out there this is the way to go.
I'm sure on of the alliance members has the hookup for you.