Hello, I’m Thomas from Florida

Hello,
I recently purchased a 1966 CJ 5 with the V6 Dauntless engine. I have owned several jeeps before, but not one this old. “Duke” has 62K miles on him and is in pretty decent shape. I am in desperate need of information and advice about electrical system, suspension/steering and braking options.

 

Welcome @Cheftao
Post a pic or 2 of that Dauntless powered jeep

 

I would suggest getting some of the aftermarket repair manuals like Haynes and Chilton. I see on pages 10-11 and 10-12 wiring diagrams for the early and later V6s in the Haynes. It is very simple anyway. The CJ did suffer from using the frame and body as grounding locations which steel is a poor conductor of electricity and from the wires being on the small side.

 

Always thought the frame would be a good ground. @Cheftao consider upgrading the gauge of the grounding wire from the frame to engine block as well to the battery.

 

You could get a multimeter to check continuity from one end of the frame to another to confirm.

 

Welcome from Florida lol!

Where about a you at? I’m in Orlando!

 

Hello All,
Thank you for the electrical info. I have begun changing out all the wiring I can but I am wondering if spending the money for a new wiring harness would be worth the money. I have 2 quotes of about $900. Is this a fair price? I would also install a fuse box or a switch box as aggrexx suggested.

 

Why does the wiring harness need to be replaced? The electrical system in the CJ is fairly simple when compared to modern electronic laden vehicles.

 

Great question. Most of the wiring is corroded especially at the beginning and termination points. I see so many points where the wires are so bad they seem to be hanging on by a thread or two of copper. Do you think it’s worth the money to install a new wiring harness?

 

First great looking CJ and the cool driver looks like she enjoys her ride. Post up a pic of some of the trouble spots on the wires as others may have a differing opinion. Depending upon the severity of the wire damage one could make an assessment whether repairs would be a viable option before replacement.

 

Here’s a good example of what I’m talking about. This is the floor operated highbeam low beam switch connection from the engine compartment view.

 

Pretty crusty, rusty connections but i don't give up that quickly. I'm thinking wire brush, file, new connectors, quality crimper, heat shrink, protective wire wrap and a healthy application of dielectric grease.

 

I agree with aggrex, try sanding that stuff off before you spend almost a grand to replace it. Part of the perks of owning a Jeep is getting in there and getting your hands dirty a bit!

 

Hi all, Ok will do. I ordered a new floor hi/low beam switch and will change them out. ANy thoughts on dielectric grease? Since the back of the switch is open to the elements, is there some kind of protective grease/film or container I can protect the the back of the dimmer switch? Thanks....

 

Yes, and lots of it around electrical connectors.