How to Wire Chevy & GMC Trucks: 1947-1987

Rewire your vintage Chevrolet/GMC truck yourself!

If you are building a vintage truck, it will most likely require new wiring at some point. Whether the original wiring is old, brittle, has splices, or has already been removed, fresh wiring is critical to a trucks dependability. Whether you’re working on a singular task or doing a complete rewire, your classic Chevrolet/GMC pickup’s viability and safety relies on a properly working electrical system.

Due to today’s automotive aftermarket, there is no reason to not do the wiring yourself. Rewiring the truck helps you save money and provides peace of mind.

Vehicle-specific kits are available to replace existing or missing wiring. If you plan to do custom wiring, universal kits are available as well. Either type of kit can be installed without an abundance of electrical knowledge. With some basic tools and time, you can wire your truck just like the professionals.

In How to Wire Chevy & GMC Trucks: 1947–1987, veteran how-to author Dennis W. Parks rewires a 1970 Chevrolet C10 and a 1955 Chevrolet truck. Everything is included—from the basics of wiring lights, the starter, and the alternator to a stereo with satellite radio, air conditioning, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) lighting. If you want to complete this task yourself or if you want to learn how it is done before hiring a professional, this book covers it all.

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter 1: Basic Automotive Wiring

Principles of Automotive Electricity

Required Tools

Required Test Equipment

Chapter 2: Ignition Systems

Starters

Generators and Alternators

Ignition Coils

Ignition Switches

Batteries

Master Disconnect Switch

Neutral Safety Switch

Chapter 3: Gauges

Voltmeter/Ammeter

Oil Pressure

Coolant Temperature

Speedometer

Fuel Level

Tachometer

Sending Units

Chapter 4: Lighting Systems

Exterior

Interior

LEDs

Light Switches

Dimmer Switches

Accessory Switches 

Chapter 5: Circuits for Accessories

Electric Fuel Pumps

Transmission Lockup

A/C, Heat, and Defrost

Electric Fans

Windshield-Wiper Motor

Power Windows

Power Door Locks

Power Seats

Trailer Wiring

Chapter 6: Audio and Video Applications

Audio

Video Monitor

GPS

AM/FM/CD 

Chapter 7: Wiring Installations

Soldering and Crimping

Do-It-Yourself Wiring

Vehicle-Specific Kits: Painless Wiring Kit in a 1970 Chevy Pickup

Remove the Old Wiring

Install the New Wiring

Engine Section

Interior Section

Tail Section

Universal Wiring Kits: Affordable Street Rods Kit in a 1955 Chevy Pickup 

Install the New Wiring

Pigtails

Engine Compartment

Interior

Ground Wires

Appendix: Troubleshooting Tips

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