Wiring Harnesses

What is a wiring harness?

A wiring harness, belonging to electrical parts, also called a wire harness, is an outer sheath used to cover certain types of electronic wires. Typically, wiring harnesses are made of thermoplastic or thermosetting materials that can help protect cables from the environment. It's a simple and inexpensive method for technicians to keep wires organized, protected and easy to navigate. Although most wires come with their own outer sleeves, these sleeves are rarely thick enough to protect the leads from dust, debris, and moisture. The thicker the wire, the more likely it is to sustain damage from a blown fuse.

Functions of a wiring harness

Help increase the life of your electronic device by protecting it from compromised wires and heat damage.

It serves as a backbone when connecting digital components to each other or to other components.

Improved airflow inside the chassis.

Protection of technicians against electric shocks.

Provide a more organized work environment.

Reduce damage to your electronics from dust and debris.

Things you should know about buying a wiring harness

1. Wiring harness manufacturers attach wires to the fuse block and switches in two ways: crimping and soldering. The crimping method is almost always incomplete, as it is difficult to grasp each strand of the wire. Also, crimped connections overheat much more easily and can literally "jolt" under the right circumstances. While soldered connections, do not have these problems. Soldering is essential to the durability of the wiring harness and is the absolute best connection method.

2. Most wiringharnesses are rated for 60 to 75 amp alternators, but modern alternators (even those made for older applications) are typically rated at 100 amps. A wiring harness designed for use with a 60 or 75 amp alternatormay overheat and a fire may occur when connected to a 100 amp alternator.

3. Many wiring harnesses are made only to accommodate the number of circuits listed. That means, to add a circuit, you have to replace the fuse block, upgrade the wiring, and maybe even buy a whole new wiring harness because expanding the circuit might cause many troubles. Look for a wiring harness that can handle the extended current surge if you decide along the way to add a circuit or two.

4. Many wiring harness companies will use copper alloys - copper "mixtures" - for their wires instead of 100% OEM quality copper wire. Although copper alloy wires are less expensive, they cause a voltage drop in the car's electrical system.

If you’re looking for a wiring harness or your wiring harness needs to be replaced, MyMRO can provide you an OEM or aftermarket wiring harness from major manufacturers like John Deere, Komatsu, Perkins, Cummins, and many others in stock.