The Pontiac Firebird originally appeared in 1967 and was based on the Chevrolet Camaro platform. In 1968, the Firebird underwent some minor changes including updates to the front end and a wider selection of engines. If you’re looking for a wiring diagram for your 68 Firebird, you’re in luck – this article will cover everything you need to know to get your car wired up and running smoothly.
History of the 68 Firebird
The 68 Firebird was a popular model in the Firebird’s first generation, and it went on to become an iconic muscle car. One of the most noticeable changes from the previous year was the redesigned front end which featured a split grille and new headlights. The 68 Firebird also had a wider selection of engines to choose from, including a 400 cubic inch V8 engine.
If you’re lucky enough to own a 68 Firebird today, you may be in need of a wiring diagram to get it running smoothly. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to do.
Wiring Diagram Overview
Before we get into the specifics of the 68 Firebird wiring diagram, it’s important to understand what you’re looking at. A wiring diagram is a visual representation of the electrical system in your car. It shows how each component is connected, and can help you diagnose any electrical issues that might be causing problems with your car.
There are a few things to keep in mind when looking at a wiring diagram:
- The wiring diagram will be specific to your car – make sure you have the correct diagram for your year and model.
- The wiring diagram will show both the positive and negative connections for each component.
- The wiring diagram will also show the color coding for each wire, which is important when troubleshooting any electrical issues.
Where to Find a Wiring Diagram
There are a few different places where you can find a wiring diagram for your 68 Firebird. The first place to check is your car’s owner’s manual – this should have a basic wiring diagram that will give you an idea of how the system is set up.
If you need a more detailed wiring diagram, there are a few options:
- Check online – there are a number of websites that offer wiring diagrams for classic cars, including the 68 Firebird.
- Visit a local auto parts store – they may have a wiring diagram in stock, or be able to order one for you.
- Try contacting a classic car restoration specialist – they may have access to wiring diagrams for your car.
Components of the Electrical System
Before we dive into the wiring diagram itself, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the components that make up the electrical system in your 68 Firebird. Here are some of the key components:
- Battery – provides power to start the car and run the electrical system.
- Alternator – recharges the battery while the car is running.
- Distributor – distributes electrical power to the spark plugs.
- Starter – engages the engine when you turn the key in the ignition.
- Ignition switch – turns the electrical system on and off and engages the starter.
- Fuse box – protects the electrical system from damage caused by short circuits.
- Relays – control electrical power to components such as the headlights and windshield wipers.
Wiring Diagram Breakdown
Now that we have a basic understanding of the components of the electrical system, let’s take a closer look at the 68 Firebird wiring diagram. It’s important to note that the specific wiring diagram you’ll need will depend on the options that are installed on your car.
The wiring diagram will be broken down into sections, with each section showing the wiring for a specific component or group of components. Here are some of the sections you might see:
- Engine – this section will show the wiring for the engine and related components such as the alternator and distributor.
- Chassis – this section will show the wiring for components such as the headlights and taillights, as well as the wiring for the fuse box and relays.
- Instrument panel – this section will show the wiring for the dashboard and instrument gauges.
- Optional equipment – if your car has any optional equipment such as a rear defroster or power windows, there may be a separate section for this in the wiring diagram.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a wiring diagram to work on my 68 Firebird? | While it’s not strictly necessary to have a wiring diagram, it can be very helpful when troubleshooting any electrical issues in your car. |
| Where can I find a wiring diagram for my 68 Firebird? | You can check your car’s owner’s manual or try contacting a classic car restoration specialist. There are also a number of websites that offer wiring diagrams for classic cars like the 68 Firebird. |
| Is it safe to work on the electrical system in my 68 Firebird? | Working on the electrical system in your car can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Be sure to follow all safety precautions and consult a professional if you’re unsure about anything. |
| What should I do if I’m having electrical issues in my 68 Firebird? | Start by checking the fuse box and relays, as these are often the cause of electrical issues. If that doesn’t solve the problem, consult a professional. |
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a wiring diagram for your 68 Firebird, there are a few different options available. Having a wiring diagram can be very helpful when troubleshooting any electrical issues, and can help you get your car running smoothly. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when working on the electrical system in your car, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about anything.
