Non-Deluxe Gauges to Deluxe swapover?

[GMCNUT]

Ray, I might need your input again here - I found two sources for new 1963 Alternator harnesses for trucks w/ guages - BUT - one is less than 1/2 the price of the other - Eckler's wants 92.99 where Classic Parts only wants like 39.99 for what is being shown and said to be the same harness. Wondering what you would recommend based on what you can tell of these - can't say for sure if they are both the same in terms of having the exact wires where they need to be, etc, but both do say 63 Chevy Truck with guages....thoughts?

http://www.classicparts.com/1963-66-...tinfo/52-230/#

http://www.ecklerstrucks.com/chevy-t...1963-1966.html

[ray_mcavoy]

Originally Posted by GMCNUT

Wondering what you would recommend based on what you can tell of these - can't say for sure if they are both the same in terms of having the exact wires where they need to be, etc, but both do say 63 Chevy Truck with guages....thoughts?

Based on the fitment listings, it looks like either one of those harnesses would be suitable for your application.

It's hard to judge the quality of a wiring harness based on the photos. However, I did notice the Classic Parts description says: "Uses modern PVC coated copper wiring in the correct color codes with original connectors." The trouble with that is most PVC insulation is only good for temperatures up to 80°C (176°F). I'd be leery of using that type of insulation for engine compartment wiring. Granted, the front light / alternator harness is not routed very close to the engine. But I still think wire with a cross linked polyethylene insulation (such as type SXL ... good to 125°C / 257°F) would be a better choice. And that's probably what accounts for a good portion of the price difference. I also noticed that the connectors on the Classic Parts harness aren't all the original style as the description claims. It looks like they're using generic ring terminals (with the yellow & blue insulated barrels) instead of OE type un-insulated ring terminals on the ground wires. But that's not a real big deal unless you're doing a 100% stock restoration.

I don't know who Eckler's is using as their wiring harness provider but their price looks more in line with harnesses from AAW, M&H, or Lectric Limited. Assuming they're made by one of those 3 companies, I'd recommend them over the lower cost Classic Parts harness.

[GMCNUT]

Thank you Ray - another big help. I am going to also try and source a perfect uncut-on original alternator harness too - I may opt to install a nice clean original over aftermarket - we'll see