wiring on new engine. Just to make sure I get it right

bryanjeep · #1 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 10:49 PM

Hey guys and ladies,

I pretty much know what to do, but when I put the 350 (carburetor) in, I was wondering what wires to utilize? I would like to keep that stock fuse block under the hood. So if you could help me, it would be great. The block is an 1980 - 1985= 350. Tell me if I am right or wrong and fill in the blanks.

Here goes:
Alternator= pos terminal
starter= switch & pos terminal on battery
distributor= ?
electric choke= ignition switch positive
electic speedometer from Autometer= to one of the two wires coming out of speedometer sender?
reverse lights= side of 700r4
ETC!!!!!!=

bryanjeep · #2 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 04:05 PM

And does my speedometer sender run through the stupid computer???? I am going to keep the stock speedometer until I can afford the new dash and electric speedo. If it runs through the computer then I can't keep it.

XJNick · #3 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 06:18 PM

Hi,

Your question in the first post is confusing to me? What is it you need help with?

Quote:

Originally Posted by bryanjeep

And does my speedometer sender run through the stupid computer????

It's almost a certain YES. TJs for sure, since ALL dashboard indicators and gauges are driven through the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
I'm not even sure if you can get an electric speedometer to work with the sensor without the signal first going through the PCM. This is because it appears from the schematics that the PCM is the sole driving circuit for the gauges.

It appears that everything is becoming electronic in modern vehicles. In my opinion, this is a good thing. However, it is bad for you, since it is going to be hard to find ways to adapt the things dependant on the PCM to work in a more analog environment (without a computer).

-Nick

bryanjeep · #4 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 09:32 PM

I can hook up Autometer's electric speedometer to my current sender later on. I just wanted to start getting acurate mileage when the engine goes in (meaning new engine = new speedometer) but I dont have one of those unlimited budgets. I wish I did...don't we all? So my idea was to try and still have the stock speedometer until I can afford all Autometer.

As for my first question, I was wondering if everything I typed there was right? Did I leave anything out? I am doing all my planning now so the swap doesnt get held up by all of this later.

XJNick · #5 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 10:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bryanjeep

So my idea was to try and still have the stock speedometer until I can afford all Autometer.

What I was trying to say is this: it is highly likely that your stock electronic speedo is driven through the Powertrain Control Module (computer). Therefore, remove the PCM, and the stock speedo will NOT function.

In reference to your first post, that seems vaguely correct in general, but I have no knowledge about the set up of the 350 engine, and am having troubles visualizing what connections it may have or need to operate correctly.

Even if I knew more about that engine, I'm afraid I can't be of much help on specifics, as that Jeep's electrical system was not designed for a carburated engine and will have to be modified specifically for the new setup.

Good Luck
-Nick

far_right · #6 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 10:24 PM

buy a GPS then you know exactly how fast you are goin, adn dont have to worry about bigger tires in the future

bryanjeep · #7 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 11:45 PM

I'd get a lot more use out of a speedometer/odometer that you can calculate for gear size and tire size. Probally cheaper than GPS too; but good idea though. The good thing though with the engine wiring is that I can get rid of the majority of those stupid wires. The 350 should only have a few wires and cables.

bryanjeep · #8 (**permalink**) 01-01-2004, 05:06 PM

but does anyone know the answer to my first question?

fourtrail · #9 (**permalink**) 01-02-2004, 01:20 PM

are you using the stock t-case. the speedo drives off of it not the transmission otherwise your speed would be way off when in low range. if you are using the stock case then just plug the sending unit back in. otherwise with the popularity of a gm drivetrain swaps some one probably makes a sending unit for the t-case you are going to use that will plug into the factory harness.

bryanjeep · #10 (**permalink**) 01-02-2004, 06:32 PM

I am keeping the t case. I am planning on keeping the sending unit in the t case too. I was just wondering about it because I won't be buying the electric speedo I want right away, so I will be without a speedo for a while since I am ripping that stupid computer out of there.