Rewire your vintage Chevrolet/GMC truck yourself!
If you are building a vintage truck, it will most likely require new wiring at some point. Whether the original wiring is old, brittle, has splices, or has already been removed, fresh wiring is critical to a trucks dependability. Whether you’re working on a singular task or doing a complete rewire, your classic Chevrolet/GMC pickup’s viability and safety relies on a properly working electrical system.
Due to today’s automotive aftermarket, there is no reason to not do the wiring yourself. Rewiring the truck helps you save money and provides peace of mind.
Vehicle-specific kits are available to replace existing or missing wiring. If you plan to do custom wiring, universal kits are available as well. Either type of kit can be installed without an abundance of electrical knowledge. With some basic tools and time, you can wire your truck just like the professionals.
In How to Wire Chevy & GMC Trucks: 1947–1987, veteran how-to author Dennis W. Parks rewires a 1970 Chevrolet C10 and a 1955 Chevrolet truck. Everything is included—from the basics of wiring lights, the starter, and the alternator to a stereo with satellite radio, air conditioning, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) lighting. If you want to complete this task yourself or if you want to learn how it is done before hiring a professional, this book covers it all.
Rewire your vintage Chevrolet/GMC truck yourself!
If you are building a vintage truck, it will most likely require new wiring at some point. Whether the original wiring is old, brittle, has splices, or has already been removed, fresh wiring is critical to a trucks dependability. Whether you’re working on a singular task or doing a complete rewire, your classic Chevrolet/GMC pickup’s viability and safety relies on a properly working electrical system.
Due to today’s automotive aftermarket, there is no reason to not do the wiring yourself. Rewiring the truck helps you save money and provides peace of mind.
Vehicle-specific kits are available to replace existing or missing wiring. If you plan to do custom wiring, universal kits are available as well. Either type of kit can be installed without an abundance of electrical knowledge. With some basic tools and time, you can wire your truck just like the professionals.
In How to Wire Chevy & GMC Trucks: 1947–1987, veteran how-to author Dennis W. Parks rewires a 1970 Chevrolet C10 and a 1955 Chevrolet truck. Everything is included—from the basics of wiring lights, the starter, and the alternator to a stereo with satellite radio, air conditioning, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) lighting. If you want to complete this task yourself or if you want to learn how it is done before hiring a professional, this book covers it all.
Dedication
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Basic Automotive Wiring
Principles of Automotive Electricity
Required Tools
Required Test Equipment
Chapter 2: Ignition Systems
Starters
Generators and Alternators
Ignition Coils
Ignition Switches
Batteries
Master Disconnect Switch
Neutral Safety Switch
Chapter 3: Gauges
Voltmeter/Ammeter
Oil Pressure
Coolant Temperature
Speedometer
Fuel Level
Tachometer
Sending Units
Chapter 4: Lighting Systems
Exterior
Interior
LEDs
Light Switches
Dimmer Switches
Accessory Switches
Chapter 5: Circuits for Accessories
Electric Fuel Pumps
Transmission Lockup
A/C, Heat, and Defrost
Electric Fans
Windshield-Wiper Motor
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Power Seats
Trailer Wiring
Chapter 6: Audio and Video Applications
Audio
Video Monitor
GPS
AM/FM/CD
Chapter 7: Wiring Installations
Soldering and Crimping
Do-It-Yourself Wiring
Vehicle-Specific Kits: Painless Wiring Kit in a 1970 Chevy Pickup
Remove the Old Wiring
Install the New Wiring
Engine Section
Interior Section
Tail Section
Universal Wiring Kits: Affordable Street Rods Kit in a 1955 Chevy Pickup
Install the New Wiring
Pigtails
Engine Compartment
Interior
Ground Wires
Appendix: Troubleshooting Tips