51 HJ Wiring Harness

[Brent in MO]

I've decided to stop trying to track down bad wiring and see if I can purchase a new complete wiring harness for my 51 HJ.  I saw some older forum threads from a few years ago mention Robert McBride as someone who has produced good harnesses for our little cars.  Does anyone here know if he still does this type of work?

[Terry T]

he is no longer with us

[Brent in MO]

I'm so sorry

[larryk]

I too need new wiring for my '53 HJ, but I'm kind of on the fence as the whether I want to use the OEM cloth-type wiring, or modern plastic. I certainly DO NOT want to use any soy-based wires. The mice have already done enough damage to the interior.
Please let us know if you find a source for a harness.

[Terry T]

all modern "cloth" wires are merely plastic coated wires with a cloth overlay.

[Fid]

all modern "cloth" wires are merely plastic coated wires with a cloth overlay.

Very true.  I made my own harness for my Allstate which was kind of a hybrid.  Similar to a '53 Henry J harness in that it has the inline fuse before the headlight switch unlike the earlier ones that have the fuse holder on the switch itself. But being an early '52 it has Autolite electrics so the starter button circuit and starter circuit are different. I had two old ones I used as a pattern but I don't think I'd want to do it again.  If you don't feel comfortable with doing electrical work, it may be best to let someone who is do it. 

[larryk]

If you don't feel comfortable with doing electrical work, it may be best to let someone who is do it. 

I have been an electrician all of my working life. Do I feel comfortable doing it? Hmmmm! 

[joefrazer]

Rhode Island Wiring carries partial wiring assemblies for various KF models. Not inexpensive, but when if you're not comfortable doing it yourself they can help. They also supply wiring and connectors for those willing to tackle the job.

https://www.riwire.com/

[Terry T]

I heard they get $1k for HJ wiring

[Fid]

I got all my wires from Rhode Island wiring.  And the wire wrap (it's not just black electrical tape) from ebay. I'd caution anyone who purchases a Henry J wire harness as there are some outfits I've seen online that list one part number for a HJ harness. Larry I believe your car is a '53 which would have Delco electrics and the harness is different than the early cars that have Autolite.

[larryk]

Larry I believe your car is a '53 which would have Delco electrics and the harness is different than the early cars that have Autolite.

You are correct, and thanks for the info about Rhode Island wiring.