The 1966 Impala ignition switch wiring diagram can be a little confusing to understand, especially for those who are not well-versed in electrical systems. However, with the right guidance, it is possible to wire the ignition switch correctly and get your Impala up and running again.
What is an Ignition Switch?
An ignition switch is an essential component of an automobile’s electrical system. It is responsible for starting and stopping the engine, powering the accessories, and controlling various other electrical components. In the case of a 1966 Impala, the ignition switch is a crucial part of the car’s ignition system.
There are two types of ignition switches: the keyed ignition switch and the push-button ignition switch. The 1966 Impala uses a keyed ignition switch, which means that the driver has to insert a key into the switch to start the engine.
Why is the Ignition Switch Wiring Diagram Important?
The ignition switch wiring diagram is a schematic that shows the electrical connections between the various components of the ignition system. It is important because it helps to ensure that the ignition switch is wired correctly and that all of the components are working together as they should.
Without a wiring diagram, it can be difficult to troubleshoot any problems that may arise with the ignition system. For example, if the car won’t start, it could be due to a faulty ignition switch or a problem with one of the electrical components. By consulting the wiring diagram, you can isolate the problem and fix it quickly.
How to Read the Ignition Switch Wiring Diagram
Before we dive into the specifics of the 1966 Impala ignition switch wiring diagram, it’s important to understand how to read the diagram. The diagram consists of several components, including the ignition switch, battery, starter solenoid, coil, ballast resistor, and distributor. Each component is represented by a symbol or a set of symbols.
The symbols used in an electrical wiring diagram can differ depending on the designer or the manufacturer. However, there are some standard symbols that are commonly used. Here are some of the most common symbols that you may encounter in the 1966 Impala ignition switch wiring diagram:
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery | Represents the car’s battery that provides power to the electrical system |
| Ignition Switch | Represents the keyed ignition switch that starts and stops the engine |
| Starter Solenoid | Represents the solenoid that engages the starter motor to crank the engine |
| Coil | Represents the ignition coil that produces high voltage to ignite the fuel mixture in the engine |
| Ballast Resistor | Represents the resistor that limits the current to the ignition coil to prevent it from overheating |
| Distributor | Represents the distributor that sends high voltage to the spark plugs to ignite the fuel mixture in each cylinder |
Each component is connected to other components via a wire. The wires are represented by lines that connect the symbols. The diagram also includes labels for the wires, which indicate the color and the function of each wire.
The 1966 Impala Ignition Switch Wiring Diagram
Now that we have a basic understanding of how to read an ignition switch wiring diagram, let’s take a closer look at the 1966 Impala ignition switch wiring diagram. The diagram consists of several components, including the battery, ignition switch, starter solenoid, coil, ballast resistor, and distributor.
The wiring diagram for the 1966 Impala ignition switch is as follows:
Wiring Diagram
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | Battery positive (+) |
| Pink | Ignition positive (+) |
| Yellow | Starter solenoid |
| Purple | Starter motor |
| Green | Coil negative (-) |
| White | Distributor |
| Black | Ground |
As you can see, there are seven wires that connect various components of the ignition system. The red wire is the battery positive (+) wire, and it connects to the positive terminal of the car’s battery. The pink wire is the ignition positive (+) wire, and it connects to the ignition switch. The yellow wire is the starter solenoid wire, and it connects to the solenoid. The purple wire is the starter motor wire, and it connects to the starter motor. The green wire is the coil negative (-) wire, and it connects to the negative terminal of the ignition coil. The white wire is the distributor wire, and it connects to the distributor. Lastly, the black wire is the ground wire, and it connects to the car’s chassis.
Conclusion
The 1966 Impala ignition switch wiring diagram may seem overwhelming at first, but by understanding the basic components of the ignition system and how to read the diagram, it is possible to wire the ignition switch correctly. By following the wiring diagram and double-checking your work, you can ensure that your Impala’s ignition system is working correctly and reliably.
FAQs
1. What is the importance of the ignition switch wiring diagram?
The ignition switch wiring diagram is important because it helps to ensure that the ignition switch is wired correctly and that all of the components are working together as they should. Without a wiring diagram, it can be difficult to troubleshoot any problems that may arise with the ignition system.
2. How do I read the ignition switch wiring diagram?
To read the ignition switch wiring diagram, you need to understand the basic components of the ignition system and how to read the symbols and wires. The diagram consists of several components, including the battery, ignition switch, starter solenoid, coil, ballast resistor, and distributor. Each component is represented by a symbol or a set of symbols, and each component is connected to other components via a wire.
3. Can I wire the ignition switch without a wiring diagram?
It is possible to wire the ignition switch without a wiring diagram, but it is not recommended. Without a wiring diagram, it can be difficult to troubleshoot any problems that may arise with the ignition system, and you may end up damaging the electrical components of your car.
