Electrical education?

[493 Mike]

I will admit I had automotive electrical training at college and systems were much simpler back then, but the basic principles haven't changed and they are simple. We have a LOT of electrical issues on this site and too many are declaring "electrical ignorance". Perhaps a sticky of electrical circuitry could be included here with a list of educational sources incorporated? Old dogs CAN learn new tricks!
Mike

 

[dvw]

After working in the auto repair field for over 30 years my carreer changed paths somewhat. Went to work at Chrysler Engineering in the electrical garage at CTC. What an eye opener. My job was to repair prototype car build electrical faults. You got to see it all. Wiring mistakes buried deep with-in the car that needed major disasembly. CAN BUS messaging issues, program issues with modules fighting with each other, milla second 500+ voltage spikes, flyback current damge, and more. It was challenging, but fun. Learned a ton while I was there. Worked there a year before a vehicle ever came into my stall that actually ran before it was worked on. Worked there 10 years befor retiring. The old school stuff is pretty straight forward. But you can get into trouble when the aftermarket items are installed, larger alternators, fans, fuel injection.

 

[twecomm]

I get that there are many folks saying they are "electrically challenged" but at some point, learning the basics might be quite helpful. IMHO the electrical in the 60's era cars were about as basic and simple as it gets. Chrysler, Ford or GM products... they all worked the same. Now, I must admit that although I have an electrical background and worked in electronics all my adult life, I do have a good grasp on mechanical things as well, I can do the basic car stuff required to keep my my 66 Charger running safely and properly. That said, I would never never consider rebuilding my engine or transmission as I don't consider myself as having the knowledge or experience to do so, let alone pulling off the physical aspects of attempting doing those things at my age.
I have had to re-educate myself about the mechanical aspects of these 60's era cars as I learned how to do basic things from my dad when I was 16 and had my first car, a 64 Ford Galaxy 500. I needed to re-learn things when I got my 66 Charger in 2010. Although I understand the basics, I must defer to others on things on these cars I can't or would not consider doing. That's what's nice about these specifically focused internet forums. I believe that members understand that not everyone is a expert on a given topic. So.. ask away as there is a great wealth of knowledge here on B Bodies. Don't be afraid to ask. Many videos on electrical basics on You Tube as well as books at library which are both a good place to start.

 

[Hilljack68]

Perhaps a sticky of electrical circuitry could be included here with a list of educational sources incorporated?

 

[Hilljack68]

Great idea... thanks Mike. I have a solid grasp of residential and machine electrical, but admittedly am a bit weak when it comes to automotive electrical. For a guy whose been a professional machine electrician for over 35 years, it's kind of embarrassing really.