The Wiring Thread

[TdmayfieldIV]

Decided to start a thread all about wiring. I have had **** wiring since day one from my bronco. I'm re-doing all of it for the new body and I have learned a few things that I though i should pass on.

Post your wiring tips, ideas, common flaws ect.

1. The wire itself
-The wire from parts stores is **** and isn't designed for the heat of underhood use.
-GXL wire is what the auto industry uses. It has a thicker shielding and can withstand underhood heat.
-16 Guage is only good up to 20 amps, more than that and **** will start melting down
-14 Guage is the industry standard for most circuits

2. Connections
-Tools are the key. Pliars don't cut it when it comes to crimp connections.
https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQPlQTokTJkFq6YSe_Wl4r_Ue21OUIZi K2jPhWNveDrM3i8mKRcjw
Weatherpack crimpers, these suck for butt connectors

https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSDP8F0KcfvVmQatsAANHmcHslNI6kTL a4REyfjaWHtpJBYycFI
Normal crimp pliars, the ones with the crimpers near the end of the tool suck because you can't get the leverage you need. The pliars with the crimp near the pivot allow you to get a good crimp.

Strippers

https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTSATk9gMZng9GOUKH0I78rCMv3pqWKa u8JxG2cZQwK--y3Rqt2IQ
These are the only way to go, period.

[BroncoJo]

Your bronco is going to scrap

[tommy53002]

My jeeps in the same crap wiring boat. I've thought about ripping it all out a few times but have fought the urge. Good luck.

[KrazyKarl02]

Crimp connections suck, If it is important I solder it. Look up a video on you tube if you do not know what I am talking about. After I solder, I put some silicone on it and heat shrink.

[robertf03]

uninsulated crimp connectors are the way to go. every terminal on a vehicle is crimped from the factory, not soldered.

[jasonjuch]

Strippers

https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTSATk9gMZng9GOUKH0I78rCMv3pqWKa u8JxG2cZQwK--y3Rqt2IQ
These are the only way to go, period.

I disagree with this, my dad is an electrical engineer and both of us are ham radio operators so we mess with wires a lot. We own strippers yet we always use plain cutting pliers to strip our wires. Once you get the hang of it it is just one less tool to have to have in your hand while your laying under the vehicle.

[RCcola55]

I like the channel loc crimpers for both stripping and crimping duties. Just takes a while to master. I'm with Karl though, I have switched to soldering for all my connections.

[Seth]

go for the Kleins :)