Wire conversions???

[Mrbimmerdude]

I was curious of there was a more up to date wire harness available or would it be a bad idea to convert the relays and switches to a fuse block arrangement? Just to clean up the engine bay a bit more.?

[baltobernie]

Generally, folks make wiring changes to improve electrical performance or overcome factory deficiencies. I wouldn't mess with an electrical system that is performing satisfactorily. Adding or subtracting stuff for appearance sake without an overall plan seems to be asking for a visit from Murphy.

[Mrbimmerdude]

Ah I see, thanks for the heads up, I was wondering if it was a good idea but you have changed that thought.

[v6spider]

I'm doing away with the European style fuse box. And using an atc style one in place of it.. IMHO the electrical system is the weakest link in the spider.

Rob

[spider2081]

Just my opinion,
The quality of the wire and connectors in my 81 Spider are pretty good. They certainly were very good quality in 1981. I think one of the biggest problems with the electrical systems is poor repairs and modifications by previous owners. This includes some of the headlight relay kits sold to improve the headlight operation. The wire and connectors in some these kits are of a lessor quality then the original wiring.
If you don't think your original harness has been poorly modified or repaired I would not look to replace it.
Having said that
I have Removed the ground pods and installed ring terminals on all the grounds. I used the original ground studs with star washers to improve the grounds.
I installed relays using modern Tefzel wire for the headlights, starter solenoid, radiator cooling fan and windshield wipers.
Cleaned the fuse panel and installed European style fuses made of brass thinking they would be less susceptible to corrosion.
I did this in 2004, close to 40,000 miles ago and have had no electrical problems.

[v6spider]

Just my opinion,
The quality of the wire and connectors in my 81 Spider are pretty good. They certainly were very good quality in 1981. I think one of the biggest problems with the electrical systems is poor repairs and modifications by previous owners. This includes some of the headlight relay kits sold to improve the headlight operation. The wire and connectors in some these kits are of a lessor quality then the original wiring.
If you don't think your original harness has been poorly modified or repaired I would not look to replace it.

The wire itself is good quality it's the connectors and fuse box that are poor IMO. None of them are weather proof. If I had my druthers if replace every connector with good modern weather proof connectors. I think it is even more important in a car that is exposed to elements like a convertable... the fuse box is a joke. My compromise was to use dielectric grease on all the connections.

Cheers!
Rob

[wizard124]

The only wiring mod I have discovered on my '80, is an extra ground splice in the trunk. I believe this runs to the electric fuel pump. Otherwise all stock but wire brushed and cleaned. No problems noted with my system.

[bradartigue]

You guys are giving FIAT too much credit; the electrical system was an antiquated design even in 1966, it has more in common with a car from 1956. It never evolved over the years except for the placement of the voltage regulator, and was simply added to over the years, overloaded, and exposed to the elements.

You fight the electricals. Best bet - keep it as original as possible as long as it is practical and safe.

[v6spider]

You guys are giving FIAT too much credit; the electrical system was an antiquated design even in 1966, it has more in common with a car from 1956. It never evolved over the years except for the placement of the voltage regulator, and was simply added to over the years, overloaded, and exposed to the elements...

That sums it up right there!

Cheers!
Rob

[4uall]

Other than Brads incredible info http://www.artigue.com/fiat/

I have found these videos to be valuable as well

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YxW6bc_gk8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgwR9sYN5f0

more reference documentation
http://www.mirafiori.com/faq/content/el ... estore.htm