Automotive Wire

If you know anything about cars, you are well aware that automotive wire is used in many ways. Although you may never personally use this supply to fix or upgrade a vehicle, it is something that is common in the automotive industry. There are multiple types of automotive primary wire ranging from cross linked insulation to PVC. No matter what you are searching for, make sure you know the similarities and differences before making a purchase. As you compare the pros and cons of your many options, you will find that there is one main difference; the temperature load that it can handle. In short, cross-linked automotive wire can withstand a higher temperature than PVC.

It is important to note that automotive wire is quite versatile. With this, you are able to meet the requirements of many jobs. As you can imagine, this same type of wiring can be used in many other industries. When you choose the right wire for your job, you can be rest assured that you are going to get top of the line results. As noted above, the most important thing is that you choose wire that is able to resist the high temperatures that it is sure to face. Along with this, you have to choose the proper gauge for the job you are working on.

When shopping for automotive wire, make sure you buy from a reputable source that only deals with reputable manufacturers. This is important to ensure that you are getting something that conforms with the most recent industry standards. Things have changed a lot over the years. You don’t want to buy and use auto wire that is seen as outdated and no longer up to the standards of the automotive industry. Not only could this make your job more difficult, but it can definitely lead to safety issues.

How and where you use automotive wire depends on many factors. You need to start by diagnosing the issue you are dealing with. For example, this is most commonly used throughout the electrical system. Along with this, the AC unit, battery cables, and ignition system may require your attention from time to time.

Note: the type of wire that you use for one system may not be the same as the next. Make sure you know exactly what you should be using before you start any job.

Extreme Performance

All the wiring that is used in the automotive industry is designed to perform well under even the most extreme conditions. Not only can this wire withstand high temperatures but it can do so under heavy loads.

When shopping for automotive wire, it is essential that you use the type that is specified by the manufacturer. This will ensure that your system never fails even when conditions are overbearing. Some of the many applications in which you will have wiring and are subject to rough conditions, include: backup lights, circuit breaker, power door locks, horn relay connector, brake lights, and wipers.

Wiring Supplies

It is one thing to purchase the automotive wire that you need to complete a particular job. It is another thing entirely to actually complete the task at hand with a high level of efficiency. There are many other automotive wiring supplies that you may need. Fortunately, most companies that sell wire will be able to provide you with all the other supplies that you need. This includes items such as wire terminals, wire harness, wire loom and wire cable. Along with this, you will need to purchase any tools that are necessary to complete the job.

Tips for Buying Automotive Wire

As you begin to shop for automotive wire there are several things to keep in mind:

  • Find the right manufacturer. The last thing you want to do is buy something that is not up to industry standards. This could lead to issues with your vehicle once installed.
  • Know your many options. Just because the auto wire industry appears small does not mean that this is actually the case. In fact, there are many options for you to choose from – some of which are going to be right for your job, some of which you should pass on for the time being. The first time you shop for wire, you may want to get the advice of a professional. Tell them which type of job you are working on and let them suggest which wire is best.
  • Shop around. Just like anything else, you should shop around for the best automotive wire in terms of quality and price. This is the only way to be 100 percent confident in the decision you are making.

Do It Yourself?

It is easy to think that you can buy the right automotive wire, dive into a project, and complete it with accuracy. However, this is not always the case. Unless you know what you are doing or are willing to be patient and learn as you go, most jobs are best left for a professional. Just like wiring in your home, a bad job could lead to additional issues as well as safety concerns.

There is nothing wrong with becoming a “do it yourself” type of person, but when it comes to auto wiring and your automobile you need to be safe at all times.

Final Word

As you shop for automotive wire you will find that it is very affordable. But just because this supply is affordable does not mean you should make a purchase and dive head first into a new project. If your vehicle is in need of new wiring, no matter what the reason may be, make sure you know what you are buying and that you complete the task in its entirety.

{ 0 comments }

Automotive Wire Harnesses Can Accommodate Many Features

An automotive wire harness refers to a piece of material (usually plastic) that connects several wires to form one connection point. Harnesses are helpful when multiple wires need to be connected to one wire. They also provide a level of safety and security as harnesses do not easily pull apart.

Types of Harnesses

There are hundreds of companies that manufacture automotive wire harnesses, and they can be purchased at auto repair/supply stores and car stereo stores, depending on the type of harness you need. The size and shape of the harness will vary depending on the component it attaches to and the amount of wires that need to be bundled. There are top-quality harnesses available that are made from materials to resist dirt, oil, heat and water.

Automotive wire harnesses can be used in electronic ignitions systems, too, which can expedite any maintenance or replacement of parts. A lot of coils and starters use four or more wires, in which case an automotive wire harness would come in handy and provide added security.

automotive wire harness, auto wire harnessBecause after-market parts are so popular, companies are catering to car enthusiasts more than ever. There are auto wire harnesses available that come pre-wired to accommodate for the vehicle’s heater, headlights/brake lights, windshield wipers, ignition and turn signal, all in one harness. Some harnesses include the circuits for features (such as headlights) but don’t include the wiring. Larger harnesses include up to 14 labeled circuits so that no feature is left out. However, there is no limit to the amount of harnesses you use in your car. Because so many features can be connected through a harness, it is possible to use several harnesses on several different systems and features.

Alarm systems also utilize an automotive wire harness for convenience. Since alarm systems generally have a large number of wires, it is easy to connect the wrong wires if done manually. It also takes much longer to connect each wire manually. However, with a harness, the wires use one connection point, speeding up the whole process.
[click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }

Automotive Wire Looms Are an Important Asset to Your Wiring System

An automotive wire loom is the grouping of wires, usually bound together. The looms are comprised of wires that are similar or that power the same component of the vehicle. This makes it easier to connect and disconnect the wires when replacing or maintaining parts of the vehicle. The wires in your vehicle are used to supply power and transmit data.

Types of Looms

There are many ways to create an automotive wire loom. In a pinch, it is OK to peel back the insulation on the wires, twist the copper together and then cover the copper with electrical tape. This is not ideal in a vehicle because water, heat and dirt can loosen the tape or cause it to peel off. Plastic wire connectors are usually inexpensive and provide a stronger, more secure seal.

Although the ends of the wires are connected to vehicular components or to a wire connector, the length of wire also should be secured for safety reasons. Stray wires that are not secured could end up rubbing against many parts of the car, such as the engine, which would melt the insulation and cause a short in the wire. Group wires that run to the same component with zip ties, twist ties or plastic loom pieces. These automotive wire looms come in two pieces, one on top and one on the bottom of the bundle, and when pressed together, look like a rectangle with a line of holes. The wires are meant to fit into the holes to keep them bundled but separated. These are commonly used for spark plug wires.

Larger looms utilize split amalgamating tubing. The split tubing is just what it sounds like – tubes that are split lengthwise so that it can fully wrap around automotive wire looms. While there are a lot of tubing options available, many are primarily used to household or office electronic wiring. These types of tubing should not be used in vehicles as they could melt or break. Nylon is typically used in corrugated automotive wire looms as it can withstand higher temperatures and is available in sizes large enough to cover hoses. There also are flame retardant, slit tubes available.
[click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }

Keep a Good Connection with the Proper Automotive Wire Connectors

Automotive wire connectors are used to connect two or more wires, to attach bundles of wires to a vehicle and to connect wires to different components of a vehicle. Without the connectors, it would be impossible for wires to reach all of the needed places in a car, and it also would be impossible to replace certain car parts without removing or replacing the entire wiring system. Automotive wire connectors are used to hook up trailer lights or lights of anything else you happen to be towing. Many larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans, etc.) manufactured after 1990 have standard trailer light connectors already installed.

It is best for automotive wire connectors to be corrosion-proof and water-proof to keep your vehicle at maximum performance. Faulty connectors can lead to electrical failure, which can lead to an accident or leave you stranded. Sealed automotive wire connectors keep water and dirt at bay while protecting the wires. This can help keep the wires clean, reducing the chances of electrical shortages; however, sealed connectors are larger than other types of connectors, so make sure there is enough room for the connector before relying on it.

Inside the Connection

An automotive wire connection can involve many parts, depending on how many wires need to be connected and whether the connection is hooked to a component of the vehicle. The four main parts of a connector are the shell; sockets and pins; pin retainer; and seals.

In most automotive wire connections, the shell utilizes a lock to snap together the two parts of the connection. A shell can have many shapes depending on the situation and the number of wires involved. The pins are typically clamped to the exposed wire, with a portion crimped to the wire insulation to keep the pin and the wire from pulling apart. Electricity passes through the socket and pin from one part of the connector into the other half. Pins can be round or rectangular, depending on the manufacturer and the designated use for the part that requires wiring.

The pin retainer attaches to the front end of an automotive wire connector. This piece of plastic fits over the sockets and pins to hold them in place. And finally, the seals protect the connection from dirt and water. Most connectors feed wires through a rubber seal on each side of the connection.

Some connectors are more simplified, requiring the wire to be twisted or clamped on, such as butt connectors. These are often used in stereo wiring.
[click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }

Before You Begin, Make Sure To Have the Proper Automotive Wiring Supplies

Hardware and home-supply stores are the best place to find general automotive wiring supplies, such as spools of wire; connectors; pins and sockets; shrink wrap; harnesses; crimpers; wire tie guns; multimeter; and pliers. These types of stores also typically employ individuals with some knowledge on the subject, which can make them a valuable resource if you are a beginner or are unsure what auto wiring supplies to use. If you know exactly what part or tool you need, it may be possible to find it online at a discounted price.

Tools To Get the Job Done

Tools are an important part of your automotive wiring supplies. Having the right tool can expedite a job or turn a job done into a job done well with results that will last. The most common tools used while working on electrical components of a vehicle are wire strippers; diagonal cutters; wire crimpers; electrical tape; soldering equipment; and a multimeter or other device used to take electrical measurements.

Diagonal cutters can be used for many tasks but come in handy for cutting wires. Once cut, the insulation can be removed from the end of the wire using wire strippers. These remove the colored, outer layer of the wire while keeping the copper wire intact. Wire crimpers are used to crimp connectors onto wires for a secure hold. There are tools available that combine crimpers, cutters and strippers, however, these tools typically do not perform as well as they may advertise.

multimeter, auto wiring suppliesElectrical tape is one of those automotive wire supplies that you just don’t want to be without. Not only is it useful for wiring, but it has hundreds of other uses, which makes it versatile as well has handy. Although it can but used as a quick fix for connecting wires, a soldering iron would ensure a more lasting connection. Soldering equipment is readily available and there are a lot of options for consumers who want a complete set (including a torch, iron, gun and rosin core).

Anytime you do electrical maintenance, you want to make sure the wires are functioning. To do this, get a light test or multimeter to measure the voltage of the wires. This should be done before and after replacing any wires, looms or vehicular components that the wires connect to.
[click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }

Automotive Wiring Is Just As Important As the Engine of Your Car

When asked to list components of a vehicle, most people list the big features: engine, transmission, air conditioner, radiator, stereo, battery, etc. But none of these components would work without the intricate system of automotive wiring present in every vehicle. Automotive wiring systems supply power to the many parts of a car and they also transmit data. If it weren’t for the extensive wiring, features such as headlights, radios, windshield wipers and ignitions would not function.

Gauge and Voltage

The gauge of wire and the voltage are very important to consider, not only for the function of the components, but also for safety.

The sizing of wires used in auto wiring is different than that of clothing or shoes. The higher the number, the smaller the circumference or gauge of the wire. So, a 10 gauge wire is thicker than a 16 gauge wire. This is important to note because different components require different sizes of wire. For example, the alternator may require a 10 gauge wire while the clock uses an 18 gauge wire.

The gauge of the wire depends on the voltage and length. Higher voltage requires a bigger wire than lower voltage. Also, if a circuit exceeds 10 feet, it is recommended to switch to the next larger size of wire. So, an 18 gauge wire, at a length of 10 feet, could withstand 10 amps; but if we increase the length to 12 feet, we would need a 16 gauge wire to withstand 10 amps.
[click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }