Table of Contents
About the Author Acknowledgments
What is a Workbench Book?
Introduction
Chapter 1: Understanding Electrical Principles, Simple Circuits and Working Safely High Current/Low Voltage
Ohm’s Law
The Power Formula
Combinations
Kirchhoff’s Law
Circuit Basics
Wire Resistance Chart
Example: Installing an Electric Fuel Pump
Hazards Presented by On-Board Computers
Disconnecting the Battery—When?
Chapter 2: The Right Tools for the Job
Required Tools
The Test Light
The Computer-Safe Test Light
The Digital Multi-Meter
DMM Basic Functionality
Chapter 3: The Fundamentals of Automotive Wiring
Basic Connections
Crimp-Style Connections
Fundamentals of Crimping
Soldering Part 1
Insulating Connections
Temporary Mechanical Connectors
Distribution-Type Connectors
Connectors and Plugs
Basics for 8 AWG Wire and Larger
Chapter 4: Ignition Switches, Wiring Harnesses and Controllers
The Ignition Switch
The Wiring Harness
Controllers: The Basics
Chapter 5: Power Accessories and the Charging System
Power Door Lock Circuits
Power Window Circuits
The Charging System
Chapter 6: Wiring Aftermarket Equipment and Upgrading Components
Safety First
Passing Through a Metal Barrier
Installing a Tachometer
The Charging System—Revisited
Protecting Your Work
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting
Understanding Flowcharts
Typical Problems
Circuit Inoperable
Circuit Works, but Blows Fuses: Scenario 1
Circuit Works, but Blows Fuses: Scenario 2
Wiring is Burned Up
Battery is Drained Overnight
Intermittent Circuit Operation
Chapter 8: Advanced Installations and Interfaces
Interfacing with Power Door Lock and Power Window Circuits
Factory Wiring Diagrams
Interfacing with Power Sunroof and Convertible Top Circuits
Upgrading Headlights to Higher Power Units
Adding an Auxiliary Battery
Adding an Accessory Fuse Panel
Chapter 9: Building a Wiring Harness
Harness Basics
Building a Harness from Scratch
Harness Construction Project
Resources
Appendix
