79 f250 wiring troubles

[rollinblacksmoke]

does anyone know of a particular grounding probem with these old trucks. we are putting a 79 back together. it has been sitting for about 8 years (we didnt realize it had been so long) now wiring gremlins seem to have invaded the truck. left front park light doesnt work, and r/r taillight stays brightly lit. NOW r/r stays off, but l/f still doesnt work, but neither do turn signals or flashers(although they did the day before)...i know its and old truck, and wiring is old, brittle, etc. thinking about new wiring harness (universal form summit or a universal from painless) but trying to avoid cost right now.....anybody?????

[Ranger429]

The harness doesn't get brittle and crack like most think. The problem is when an inexperienced (not referring to you) repair is made in the harness and then corrosion sets in.

You need to check the grounds, the front is at the core support and the rear is behind the taillight screwed to the bed. Also check the bulbs to make sure they are good. A bad bulb will also cause what you are describing.

Check out this forum for more specifics info on the early model Ford's

7879BlueOvalBronco.com - Ford Bronco and F-series Truck Forums - Powered by vBulletin

[farmerhurd]

i have had many problems with the blinker switch in the column wearing / shorting out in several trucks

[rollinblacksmoke]

thanks ranger 429, i know about the repairs ( wrong solder used, wrong wire, connectors, etc.) as this was a state owned truck, i've found quite a few mess ups. bulbs, are all new, as are some of the sockets. i called summit and ordered a new universal wiring harness. thanks for the info.AND...farmerhurd, i will check the column as we rewire the truck and replace the steering wheel, i did notice the switch being suspect, as it felt sticky when turned to either side, thanks for the help guys