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Posted by Clayton in Florida [199.244.85.146] on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 18:35:04 :
I recently purchased a 73 Power Wagon, and want to make quite a few modifications. I'm not sure how many I will actually do, but I'm trying to figure out how much I'm biting off with some of them. I was hoping some folks with the experience could point me in the right direct, and maybe provide some tips and information.
Basically, I'll eventually go through everything, but the main things I'm wondering about, are installing a new wiring harness, and modifying the dash with new gauges. I was thinking about installing an A/C system, and a heater, and running a duct to two vents, in the center of the lower dash, so I can have one vent aimed at the driver, and one at the passenger. I figure that would be better than nothing, and keep it from getting too complicated. There appears to be plenty of room for a condenser, and it shouldn't affect engine cooling, because I will be putting a high performance radiator in when I build the engine. So I think I can make the needed adjustments, and fab up the mounting brackets for the condenser, and compressor, etc. Since I am wanting to do the wiring next, I feel I should go ahead and modify the dash at the same time, and go in with the new one. But if I do that, then I might as well run the ducts for the heating and A/C, right? And while I'm at it, I may as well go to the tilt column while I'm in there, and have that section of the truck completed at the same time.
So, does anyone have any experience replacing the column with a tilt column, and know what is compatible and will fit? Anyone ever installed A/C, or know how much room is back behind that dash? And can anyone help me figure out the best way to run new wiring? I have no brake lights, or rear running lights, or blinkers. I ran wire straight off the brake pedal switch to get brake lights going in order to get it home. Some of the gauges don't work. My thoughts are that it might be worth while to just change out all the wiring, fuse panels, and everything, so that I can count on everything working without problems for years to come. I have worked on a god bit of stuff, but never designed a wiring system, or installed a totally new one. I have replaced them, with new ones that match right up. However, with the modifications I'm going to do, I wonder if I should modify the wiring that is there, or just go new all the way.
Sorry to be so long winded. Again, any suggestions, advise, information, insults, or jokes pointed my way are welcome. Thank you in advance for any input.
Clayton