Wiring Harness Q&A

By Carl Walck

We get many questions here at the shop regarding our exclusive wiring harnesses. All this wiring can be confusing to some restorers. Hopefully we will be able to help to reduce some of your confusion with these series of posts.

Here are some common wiring harness questions we get asked:

1. Q: What kinds of harnesses do you carry?

A: We carry harnesses for all the MBs, GPWs, CJ2As, CJ3As, CJ3B,s CJ5s, CJ6s, DJ3As, Willys Jeepsters, Wagons, Wagons and Forward Control Wagons.

2. Q: Can I custom order a wiring harness?

A: We do some customizing if you call before you order the harness. We can add writes or lengthen wires here and there as needed to accommodate customizations or other accessories you will have added. It's hard to do plenty of custom work on a harness when we do not have access to the Jeep in order to measure. Hence if you need extra wire to perform some modifications yourself, we can smilingly provide it!

3. Q: 12V/6 V?

A: Many people ask us this question. 1956 and earlier Jeep are 6 volt, and they work just fine so long as things like the starter are in good shape, you have heavy battery wires, the ground strap is in place and the ETC is in good shape. We like to keep our old Jeeps 6-volts and all of them work just fine "there actually is no reason to switch them. If everything is in good working order, your lights are just as bright and they start just as simply as on 12 volt Jeeps. If you're keeping it all original, there are not truly plenty of reasons to change it. We advocate you stick with what ya got!

4. Q: Do I need turn signals?

A: Turn signals make it a little safer and less complicated for regular driving. But in most situations they are not mandatory. You should contact your state Department. Of Motor Automobiles to see what the laws are in your state regarding turn signals. Most states require turn signals if you are putting a regular license plate on it. But most don't require it if you are putting on antique plates. Since most of you'll be driving your Jeep on the road regularly "you must think about adding turn signals.

5. Q: What does Walck's do differently with harnesses?

A: Walck's wiring harnesses are made in the United States out of fine quality materials that exceed the original factory directions and electric necessities. All of our ends are soldered and pre-arranged so you only need to do a minimal quantity of work yourself to install it.

We detest to brag, but our harnesses are so renowned for their quality that a number of other retailers also carry them!

About the Author:

Walck's 4 Wheel Drive is dedicated to the restoration and preservation Willys Jeeps. We are the nation's leader in restoration and reproduced parts. Visit Our SiteWillys Jeep Restoration Blog