1961 ground question(s)

[Harwyn B.]

Trying to finish the new electrical harness connections under the dash and have a couple of questions. Does the stud on the inside of the instrument cluster to which the top of speedometer is fastened also serve as a ground wire point? By grounding at this point, am I also then grounding all the gauges in the cluster?

I'd like to run a ground from one of the blower motor mounting screws to a good grounding point. If I understand correctly, the heater assembly was grounded through the metallic cable on the control cables but I'd like to make sure by running a separate ground wire to some point. Would someone give me a good suggestion as to where I should run this separate ground wire? Or tell me I'm wrong in what I'm considering. Thanks.

[Wayne L.]

Re: 1961 ground question(s)

Yes, you are grounding all the gauges in the cluster. I would ground to the passenger side of the radio. There should be a ground wire already attached under the bolt for the brace.

[Frank D.]

Re: 1961 ground question(s)

Here is the absolutely horrible 61 AIM drawing of those grounds (see the red arrows)...you want them BOTH for proper functioning of your electrical gear!

You might want to strongly consider adding some add'l fusing to the harness -- now is the time....these first gen cars were lightly fused (and that's being VERY charitable). Fuses at the ammeter, clock and cigarette lighter will protect nearly all your wiring...

If you are adding any add'l wires make darn sure they are well away from the wiper pulleys/cables ...

[Ed H.]

Re: 1961 ground question(s)

I would like to add another grounding problem with the C-1's. I added a separate ground wire, 10 gauge, to one of the screws that attaches the fuel gauge to the fuel tank. I drilled a small hole in the upper left of the chassis, used a machine screw and good copper eyes attached to the frame and the tank screw. This will solve the problem of the fuel gauge moving at the same rate the turn signal flashed, plus it will assist the grounding at the rear portion of your electrical wiring.

[David Z.]

Re: 1961 ground question(s)

Harwyn
The attached PDF has some information about grounds that I put together when we rewired our 1960. Perhaps it may be of some use to you.
If anyone sees any incorrect info here I'd appreciate hearing about it. Thanks.
Dave Zuberer