The electrics are done. It was tedious work at certain stages, but having the knowledge that I did it myself made it worth it. The only part left over is the connections in the engine bay, which I’ll finish up when the motor is in.
Everything else it connected and tested serviceable, from wipers to rear lighting to fuel pump. I used approximately 120 male and female spade connectors, which is way more than I expected! Glad I bought in bulk! My soldering technique has improved markedly. Wax on wax off, Daniel-san.
The fuel pump has a safety relay that is powered by the negative coil signal to the tach. No spark means no pump, which is necessary in the event of an accident. For start the relay is jumpered by a red guarded switch, which allows for priming. It proudly carries the label BENZINP. All the switches are labled with an old school label maker, which I copied from the Porsche museum 718 RSK. And therefore speak German. Natürlich!
As feared, having a working horn button on the stearing wheel was a challenge. The whole column had to be insulated from the car and it took a while to work it out. Initially I relied on the sound of the horn relay only the confirm it was working. Connecting the horn to it made me realise there were a few more kinks to work out. A number of spurious and unexpected honks while working on it had me jump a few times! The fact that the SSP hub and VW indicator stalk are not really from the same era created challenge. An old scalextric brush was employed to create continuity between the two. It seems to be sorted now, but obviously some more testing may be needed while driving. My poor neighbours…
As for the reverse light, I have hidden some white LEDs behind the engine grill. This allows me to keep the rear devoid of extra fittings, which would detract from my intended race car look. Not to mention, save some cash by not having to fit the Speedster item. There is no light for the rear number plate yet, but will be easy enough to fit if ever required. The local number plates are so reflective, I fail to see the point of a dedicated little bulb shining on it.
I am amazed how bright the aftermarket LED brake lights are. I tested them without the red plastic lens and promptly blinded myself for a few minutes! I guess they’ll do the job!
I used a lot of automotive sleeving to prevent the dreaded ‘rat’s nest’ from forming. In the end, when it was all said and done, it was all cable tied together underneath the dash. It all neatly disappeared from view, especially when I flipped up the tray and used a wing nut to secure it. Out of sight, out of mind.
