ConcoursMustang Forums

Restoring - General discussions that span across many different groups of years and models => Parts => Topic started by: Bossbill on November 29, 2017, 11:08:14 PM

Title: Scott Drake or Other Wire Harness Vendors
Post by: Bossbill on November 29, 2017, 11:08:14 PM
I'm bouncing around on the restoration so I don't have to watch paint dry.
I have a box called wiring harnesses and clean up/rebuild the harnesses between other jobs.

However, I'm going to need a few harnesses and wonder about the state of the art on the following concours level harnesses for the 67 GT350. I suspect Drake has good stuff, but would like your thoughts:

* Engine temp, O/P, coil harness
* Backup Light harness (with switch)
* Door light harness (L/R)
* Rear Taillight/Fuel harness (the weave outer cover is in terrible shape)

The rear harness would have to be modified with the Shelby light mods, but those are in fairly good shape.
Title: Re: Scott Drake or Other Wire Harness
Post by: midlife on November 30, 2017, 07:34:10 AM
I'm not sure Scott Drake manufactures much wiring; perhaps you're thinking of Alloy Metal Products? 
Title: Re: Scott Drake or Other Wire Harness Vendors
Post by: Bossbill on November 30, 2017, 01:42:39 PM
The website http://www.drakeautomotivegroup.com lists many, many harnesses.

In the past, Scott Drake was known for high quality parts. Parts made in house to high standards. After reading a few threads it appears they are now owned by some other company. According to this review:
https://www.cjponyparts.com/scott-drake-door-courtesy-light-and-speaker-wire-harness-1967-1968/p/WDP8/
their door lights rate a 1 out of 5 as they don't fit !

There are few reviews for any of the AMP harnesses, that I could find.

I'll take any reviews by any vendor!

Title: Re: Scott Drake or Other Wire Harness Vendors
Post by: midlife on November 30, 2017, 02:11:55 PM
Having seen 1000+ harnesses, I can easily tell an aftermarket harness from an OEM at a glance.  Connector styles, wire color shading, and very clean harness tape are easily identified as being reproduction.  If you are looking for concours correct, you'd be better off finding a NOS or excellent used OEM version. 

Otherwise, I would recommend AMP, as they are good quality and are used throughout the vintage Mustang world.  I've heard reports of a couple of wrong wire colors for parking lamps, for example, IIRC.  If I have to replace a harness and no used ones in stock, I don't hesitate to use AMP.  My clientele, however, are rarely interested in absolutely concours correctness. 

I always recommend the engine gauge feed and alternator harnesses to be reproduction, as quality used versions are almost impossible to find.  I reject any of these harnesses that require splices that are visible, and most times they do require that.
Title: Re: Scott Drake or Other Wire Harness Vendors
Post by: 196667Bob on November 30, 2017, 06:23:08 PM
Having seen 1000+ harnesses, I can easily tell an aftermarket harness from an OEM at a glance.  Connector styles, wire color shading, and very clean harness tape are easily identified as being reproduction.  If you are looking for concours correct, you'd be better off finding a NOS or excellent used OEM version. 

Otherwise, I would recommend AMP, as they are good quality and are used throughout the vintage Mustang world.  I've heard reports of a couple of wrong wire colors for parking lamps, for example, IIRC.  If I have to replace a harness and no used ones in stock, I don't hesitate to use AMP.  My clientele, however, are rarely interested in absolutely concours correctness. 

I always recommend the engine gauge feed and alternator harnesses to be reproduction, as quality used versions are almost impossible to find.  I reject any of these harnesses that require splices that are visible, and most times they do require that.

+1
In addition, you might also check with Class-Tech in Bend, OR. I have had several "oddball" harnesses made by them from originals, where Reproductions are not available, even from AMP, and have been very satisfied over the years.

Bob