questions on my 71, 454 3Speed.

[patternmakerbob]

Ok guys I finally got some time to start getting the old truck going. After a compression check I am satisfied with 143 to 151 lbs per cylinder and will start the tune up today. However there are a few questions I have.
The motor is a 454 out of a 76 1 ton.
First off where does this black wire go? the other three go to the alternater that was purchased recently.
Second would be what are these things on the firewall. When it comes to electricals I have much to learn. They are not hooked up but nothing works in the cab.
Third, I remember seeing a thread on here about big block headers in the way of the motor mounts. Check out what the dumb*ss I bought it from did to be able to use headers. Uhh, aren't headers to increase flow? Who cares just beat it. Yes they are resting on the mounts. Unless I can find headers especially for this I am going back to stock exhaust manifolds, if I can find them.
Thanks,
Bob

[patternmakerbob]

Did I stump you guys? 29 views and no replies? By the way the headers are crimped to a point that they are less than 1/2 of airflow.
Bob

[Livrat]

The black wire is a ground wire.. it normally has a "ring" connector on it.. there should be a stud on the alternator for it to attach too..

The relays on your firewall are part of the original emission controls.. they are not needed unless you are required by law to have them..

Your header issue can only be solved by having custom built headers.. OR using factory big block engine towers..
Or..The cheapest way is to use 73 and up towers.. (you will have to drill a couple of holes)

Even if you get stock exhaust manifolds they will hit the towers you have now

[JDL]

the black wire is a ground to the alt.

[patternmakerbob]

Thanks for the replies. I will ground the Alt (probably why the battery runs dead)?? Get rid of unnecessary emmision stuff on the firewall and figure out something on the headers.

Friend has a welding shop. Maybe he can cut out the front pipe and replace it with one that is bent to avoid existing towers. ??

Bob

[Olden Days]

Originally Posted by Livrat

.. OR using factory big block engine towers..
Or..The cheapest way is to use 73 and up towers.. (you will have to drill a couple of holes)

Even if you get stock exhaust manifolds they will hit the towers you have now

yep. it looks like you have small block engine towers in there. The big block towers are dished right at that spot for clearance.
here is a pic I found on this site to illustrate.