new harness install

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Old Aug 20, 2025 | 06:07 AM
  #1  
McGreggor's Avatar
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From: Western Ct.
new harness install

Morning CO. 68 442 convertible. I have most of my new harness in hand and prepping to get started on the replacement. Never did this before so reaching out for any advise, helpful hints, do this before that etc. This is a replacement and not an "upgrade" so its plug and play. I am doing the front light extension, engine starter, and dash, from American Autowire. My main concern is under the dash/gage connections, as I have little know how there. I have been going through old posts but have not run into an all inclusive thread, so if there are any out there please point me in the direction and Ill read em. I am removing the radio, amp, and speakers and leaving it deleted for now. No AC. When funds allow I will do the rear light harness, after I do the body work needed back there. Thanks in advance. Greg
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 06:11 AM
  #2  
joe_padavano's Avatar
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The factory installed the harness to the backside of the dash before the dash went in the car. You may find it much easier to pull the dash, install the harness, then reinstall the dash.
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 06:18 AM
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Vintage Chief's Avatar
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As per Joe's suggestion "you may find it much easier" I'd argue you should certainly remove the dash, install the harness, then reassemble the dash. Give yourself some working room so you don't lose your mind.
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 07:17 AM
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Are you doing a preterminated kit? I did a 62 Impala with one, but I had to make up all the ends. It's very time consuming. I'd suggest using a LOT of sacrificial zip ties until you get everything where you want it. You're toeing the restomod line, so be careful with those OCA deductions.

If you botch the hole in the firewall, I have billet trim rings for the engine side.


I used TechFlex wrap, available at Wirecare.com
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 08:01 AM
  #5  
McGreggor's Avatar
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Originally Posted by joe_padavano
The factory installed the harness to the backside of the dash before the dash went in the car. You may find it much easier to pull the dash, install the harness, then reinstall the dash.
I'm sure this will add to the might as well column. Some times we have to work harder to make it easier later. Thank you.
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 08:05 AM
  #6  
McGreggor's Avatar
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Originally Posted by Vintage Chief
As per Joe's suggestion "you may find it much easier" I'd argue you should certainly remove the dash, install the harness, then reassemble the dash. Give yourself some working room so you don't lose your mind.
I was losing my mind trying to fix what I had. I'll take my time and ask questions when needed. Thank You.
Old Aug 20, 2025 | 08:17 AM
  #7  
McGreggor's Avatar
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Originally Posted by fleming442
Are you doing a preterminated kit? I did a 62 Impala with one, but I had to make up all the ends. It's very time consuming. I'd suggest using a LOT of sacrificial zip ties until you get everything where you want it. You're toeing the restomod line, so be careful with those OCA deductions.

If you botch the hole in the firewall, I have billet trim rings for the engine side.


I used TechFlex wrap, available at Wirecare.com
All terminals are in place. I have a feeling there will be some in the future though. Ill look into the wrap as I do like the look better than other conduits. I can live with the deductions. I'll use them on my 1040
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