Books on automotive electricals

Afternoon all,

I'm approaching the stage on the rebuild where I need to look at the birds nest that resembles a wiring loom in my 90. Whilst i'm happy to undertake most spanner related jobs, wiring is something that has always been a mystery to me and I would like to learn more about it.

First job is to make new wiring looms for the front and rear lights, and also add in an uprated headlight circuit, complete with relays.

I've had a look around and come across these 2 books which look quite good but does anyone else have any recommendations for either books or internet resources?

Automotive Electrical Manual Haynes Automotive Repair Manuals: Amazon.co.uk: Ken Freund, Jon LaCourse, Mike Stubblefield, Bob Worthy: Books

How to Diagnose and Repair Automotive Electrical Systems (Motorbooks Workshop): Tracy Martin: 9780760320990: Amazon.com: Books

When ever i remake a loom i first pin it out on a large sheet of wood, and label everything before i cut the tape and wrapping.

If its really bad i label everything if you can determine what each wire is based on its colour or wiring / connector type.

I then replace one wire at a time and get all my waterproof plugs from WURTH. So when its rebuilt i can have a dry reliable loom.

1st rule of electrics... don't try and understand it, just accept it.

Must admit, ive been thinking about doing an evening corse in auto electrics, I can do the basics, but would be nice to know the rest.

until you get into electronics and computer controled windows, its all pretty basic.

if you can read a wiring diagram a hour or two with a haynes manual from a 70s vehicle and the backs of several envelopes will give you all the basic wiring you need


i still delve into my 66 cortina manual if ive got to sort a dynamo and regulator on an old tractor and cant bodge it by chopping the crap out and fitting an alternator.....weird peeps these old tractor nuts wanting the old repaired rather than slap on summit better