Wiring Mess (pics included)

[dcbullet]

The 68 Ranger I have had a camper as well as a trailer hitch for many years. The previous owner removed the camper and didn't know what to do with the wiring so he butchered it. I'm looking forward to rewiring the vehicle and learning a little about electricity.

Here is where the rear light wiring comes down the frame by the driver's side rear wheel.



Does this look in good order?

Now, when it gets to the rear bumper, we have this disaster.



Am I right in assuming that I just need to figure out which wire lights up when I press the brake, switch to reverse, or turn on a signal and then hook up the corresponding wires?

If so, when I splice in the wires, should I soder then together and then use one of those plastic covers that your crimp, a cover that you shrink with a heat gun, or is there something else more prefferable? I am interested in doing it the right way one time, so advice is welcomed.

Thanks in advance.

[willowbilly3]

Just use patience and get a good test light if you don't have one. Soldering the wires and using heat shrink tubing is the best repair but I have used the crimp splices for many years without much problem if you tape everything up good to keep out moisture.
I would say that anyone who would torch a hole like that out through the valance might be capable of all sorts of butchery.

[hardtailjohn]

I use the solder/crimp splices... first you crimp it on, then apply heat to the connection, and this activates the heatshrink tubing... then a premeasured amount of solder flows and you have the best of all worlds! They're a bit pricey, but well worth it!!! I get mine from Barnes, but have see the same thing at NAPA and other autoparts stores.
John H.

[71-F250CS]

You could also use butt-connectors and squirt silicon sealer (Permatex or other) into either end to make it waterproof. Like the other guys said though, solder and adhesive lined heatshrink tubing is the trick way to go.

[willowbilly3]

Aw, that's nothing, Most othose old trucks look worse than that. Tailight wiring is a good place to get your feet wet with your electrical system. Just basics and you will feel real good when it is all working.

[dcbullet]

Problems solved. You can check it out in my project update.