When it comes to classic trucks, the 1979 Dodge truck holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. However, as these trucks age, it’s not uncommon for the wiring to become frayed or broken, causing electrical issues that can be both frustrating and dangerous. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram to help you better understand your vehicle’s electrical system and troubleshoot any issues you may encounter.
Understanding the Basics of Electrical Wiring
Before we dive into the specifics of the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how electrical wiring works. Simply put, electrical wiring is a system of conductors (wires) that carry electrical current from one point to another. Each wire has a specific color code to help identify its function within the electrical system.
In a typical car or truck, there are three main types of wiring: power wiring, ground wiring, and signal wiring. Power wiring is used to deliver electrical current from the battery to various components in the vehicle. Ground wiring is used to provide a return path for the electrical current, and signal wiring is used to transmit information between different parts of the vehicle.
Now that we have a basic understanding of electrical wiring, let’s take a closer look at the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram.
The 1979 Dodge Truck Wiring Diagram: An Overview
The 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram is a comprehensive schematic that shows the entire electrical system of the truck. It includes information on the battery, alternator, starter, ignition switch, lighting system, horn, radio, and much more.
The wiring diagram is divided into several sections, each of which corresponds to a specific area of the truck. For example, there is a section on the engine wiring, a section on the interior wiring, and a section on the exterior lighting.
Each wire on the diagram is color-coded to help identify its function. In addition, each wire is labeled with a number or letter that corresponds to a specific component or connection point on the vehicle.
The Engine Wiring
Let’s take a closer look at the engine wiring section of the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram. This section includes information on the battery, starter, alternator, and ignition system.
The battery is the heart of the electrical system in any vehicle. It provides the initial power to start the engine, and also supplies power to the rest of the electrical system when the engine is running. The battery is connected to the starter motor, which is responsible for turning over the engine when you turn the key in the ignition.
The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while the engine is running. It works by converting mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy that can be stored in the battery. Finally, the ignition system is responsible for creating the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine and gets it running.
Battery
The battery is located in the engine compartment and is held in place by a battery tray. The positive terminal of the battery is connected to the starter motor, while the negative terminal is connected to the engine block.
The battery in the 1979 Dodge truck has a voltage of 12 volts and a capacity of 60 ampere-hours. It is a lead-acid battery, which means that it is filled with a solution of sulfuric acid and water.
Starter
The starter motor is located on the engine block and is connected to the battery via a thick red cable. When you turn the key in the ignition, the starter motor turns over the engine by using a small gear to engage with the flywheel on the back of the engine.
The starter motor on the 1979 Dodge truck is a gear reduction starter, which means that it uses a small gear to turn a larger gear on the engine flywheel. This provides more torque and cranking power to start the engine more quickly.
Alternator
The alternator is located on the engine block and is connected to the battery via a thick red cable. It works by converting mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy that can be stored in the battery.
The alternator on the 1979 Dodge truck is a 65-amp unit that is internally regulated. This means that it does not require an external regulator to control its output voltage.
Ignition System
The ignition system on the 1979 Dodge truck is a conventional points-and-condenser system. It consists of an ignition coil, distributor, points, and condenser.
The ignition coil is responsible for creating the high voltage that is needed to create a spark in the engine. The distributor distributes this spark to the correct cylinder at the correct time, while the points and condenser are responsible for regulating the timing of the spark.
The Interior Wiring
The interior wiring section of the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram includes information on the lighting system, horn, radio, and other components located inside the cab of the truck.
Lighting System
The lighting system on the 1979 Dodge truck includes headlights, taillights, turn signals, and various other lights located inside and outside the vehicle. Each light has a specific color-coded wire that connects it to the rest of the electrical system.
The wiring diagram for the lighting system shows the location of each light and its corresponding wire color. It also shows the location of the headlight switch, turn signal switch, and other components that control the lighting system.
Horn
The horn on the 1979 Dodge truck is located in the engine compartment and is connected to the wiring harness using a green wire. When you press the horn button on the steering wheel, it sends an electrical signal to the horn, which causes it to emit a loud noise.
Radio
The radio on the 1979 Dodge truck is connected to the wiring harness using a blue wire. It is powered by a separate circuit that is controlled by the ignition switch. The wiring diagram shows the location of the radio and its connections to the electrical system.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I read the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram?
The wiring diagram can be a bit overwhelming at first, but with a little practice, it becomes easier to read. Each wire is color-coded, and each component is labeled with a number or letter that corresponds to a specific location on the vehicle. To use the wiring diagram, simply follow the color-coded wires to identify each component and its location.
2. Why do I need a wiring diagram for my 1979 Dodge truck?
A wiring diagram is an essential tool for any vehicle owner, especially those who are troubleshooting electrical issues. With a wiring diagram, you can easily identify the location and function of each wire and component in your vehicle’s electrical system. This can save you time and money by helping you diagnose and fix electrical problems more quickly and effectively.
3. How do I troubleshoot electrical problems in my 1979 Dodge truck?
The first step in troubleshooting electrical problems is to consult the wiring diagram to identify the location and function of each component in the system. From there, you can use a multimeter or other testing equipment to check for continuity, voltage, and resistance at various points in the system. By systematically testing each component and connection point, you can isolate the source of the electrical problem and make the necessary repairs.
4. Where can I find a 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram?
A 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram can be found in a variety of places, including online forums, repair manuals, and online parts stores. Many of these resources are free, while others may require a small fee to access.
5. Can I modify my 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram?
While it is possible to modify your wiring diagram, it is generally not recommended. The wiring diagram is designed to show the correct wiring and connections for your vehicle’s electrical system, and any modifications could potentially cause electrical problems or safety hazards. If you need to make changes to your electrical system, it is best to consult a professional mechanic or electrical technician.
Conclusion
The 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram is a valuable tool for any truck enthusiast. By understanding the basics of electrical wiring and using the diagram to identify each component and connection point in the system, you can troubleshoot electrical problems more effectively and make the necessary repairs to keep your vehicle running smoothly. So whether you’re restoring an old truck or simply maintaining your daily driver, the 1979 Dodge truck wiring diagram is an essential resource to have on hand.
