Mark, thank you for contributing an intriguing and interesting ‘problem-to-solution’ thread! These are what keeps us all involved in this Site.
Hello! I am back in the fold from moving my Dad out to Colorado from North Carolina. Been a long process…
I went with a aftermarket type (similar to a Painless but called “Keep it Clean” by Protocol Performance I bought it off of E bay a few years back) due to the fact that most of my wires were cracked, cut or just plan missing. The Kit I bought was a 8 circuit style with a modern U shaped blade fuses and fuse block and it had a large amperage circuit that would work as the convertible top circuit. Cost was around $220 for a modern and a lot safer system in my humble opinion. I covered the wires with the non-ahesive black wrap so the modern writing on the wires were covered up.There was a couple of extra circuits that I just did not use and tucked them away under the dash. Wires were clearly marked where to land them at what location they needed to be. I need help on the alternator conversion as my wiring diagram was incorrect from Protocol, but my local Mopar shop figured it out for me last year and got it working correctly. (thank goodness!)
Of course, i converted to a Alternator and Mopar electronic ignition, so I guess that would make it non-stock for 59. But if I break down in my 59, I can go to any auto parts store and get replacements. I am not into a “Points” car show but wanted a great reliable driver. Just my taste in upgrades like me converting to Mopar Disc brakes and dual brake reservoir. Mother Mopar did that a few years after our cars were built, so that is good enough for me…So that is non-stock too! I guess my car is non stock after all but uses mostly Mopar parts in the non-stock areas. I am ok with those changes…
If you don’t mind a mostly hidden modern wiring upgrade then go to a kit like mine or similar one. But I understand and appreciate those who keep it stock wiring system. Just did not work out for me.
John Q
John - I went for the stock harness because there are many things I can’t wrap this feble brain around, the main one is electrical circuits, others are algebra, calculus, physics and women. SO I went for the point and click method. I figured the cost would be higher for a prolonged stay in the insane asylum. As Matthew calls it, my “Vert” will also have a one wire alternator and maybe later aftermarket Air Conditioning.
Dick.
John; I got the catalog,main harness $889.00 (59 v8) ,taillight harness belvy convertable $356.00,power seat 2way $71.00 Mark M