If you’re a fan of classic Mustang cars, then you’ll know that the ignition wiring diagram is crucial to understanding how these cars are wired. In this article, we will be exploring the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram in detail, covering all the important aspects and answering some common questions. So, whether you’re a seasoned Mustang enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classic cars, read on to find out everything you need to know.
Overview of the 68 Mustang Ignition Wiring Diagram
The 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram is a complex system that consists of several components working together to ensure that the car is started and running smoothly. The diagram includes the battery, the starter solenoid, the ignition switch, the distributor, the ignition coil, and various other wires and connections. Understanding how these components work together is essential to troubleshooting any issues you may encounter with your Mustang’s ignition system.
Before we dive into the specifics of the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, let’s take a brief look at the basic components involved in the ignition system:
- The battery – supplies electrical power to the starter motor and other electrical components of the car.
- The starter solenoid – a small device that transmits electrical current from the battery to the starter motor.
- The ignition switch – turns the ignition system on and off.
- The distributor – sends electrical current to the correct spark plug at the right time to ignite the fuel in the engine.
- The ignition coil – transforms low voltage electrical power from the battery into high voltage power needed to create a spark for the spark plugs.
- Wires and connections – connect all the components of the ignition system together.
The Importance of the 68 Mustang Ignition Wiring Diagram
The ignition wiring diagram is crucial to understanding how the Mustang’s ignition system works. Without it, troubleshooting any issues with the system can be very difficult, if not impossible. With the diagram, you can easily identify which components are responsible for specific functions, and test each component individually to determine whether it is working correctly or needs to be replaced.
Additionally, having a good understanding of the wiring diagram can help you make modifications or upgrades to the ignition system. For example, if you want to install a new ignition system or upgrade your existing one, knowing the wiring diagram will allow you to make the necessary connections and ensure that everything is working correctly.
How to Read the 68 Mustang Ignition Wiring Diagram
Reading the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram can seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes much easier. The diagram consists of several symbols and color-coding, which indicate the type of component and the function it performs.
Here are some key symbols and color codes you need to know:
| Symbol/Color | Component/Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground connection |
| Red | Battery power connection |
| Yellow | Ignition switch connection |
| Pink | Ignition coil power connection |
| Blue | Starter solenoid connection |
| Green | Distributor connection |
Each component is represented by a symbol, and the wires connecting them are color-coded to indicate their function. For example, the symbol for the ignition switch is a rectangle with a diagonal line, and the wire connecting it to the battery is colored red.
The Battery
The battery is the heart of the car’s electrical system, providing power to all the other components. In the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, the battery is represented by the symbol “BAT” and is usually located at the front of the engine compartment. The battery is connected to the starter solenoid by a thick red wire, and to the ignition switch by a red wire with a yellow stripe.
It is important to ensure that the battery is in good condition and fully charged, as a weak or dead battery can cause all sorts of issues with the ignition system.
The Starter Solenoid
The starter solenoid is a small device that transmits electrical current from the battery to the starter motor. In the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, the starter solenoid is represented by the symbol “S,” and is usually located on the driver’s side inner fender. The starter solenoid is connected to the battery by a thick red wire, and to the ignition switch by a thin blue wire.
If you are having issues with your Mustang starting, the starter solenoid is one of the first components to check. A bad solenoid can prevent the starter motor from turning over, even if the battery is fully charged.
The Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the key to the Mustang’s ignition system, turning it on and off. In the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, the ignition switch is represented by the symbol “IGN,” and is usually located on the steering column. The ignition switch is connected to the battery by a red wire with a yellow stripe, to the starter solenoid by a thin blue wire, and to the ignition coil by a thin green wire.
If you are having issues with your Mustang starting, the ignition switch is another component to check. A faulty switch can prevent the starter solenoid from receiving power, and thus prevent the engine from starting.
The Distributor
The distributor is responsible for sending electrical current to the correct spark plug at the right time to ignite the fuel in the engine. In the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, the distributor is represented by the symbol “D,” and is usually located at the front of the engine. The distributor is connected to the ignition coil by a thin green wire, and to the ignition switch by a thin pink wire.
If you are experiencing misfires or other issues with your engine running rough, the distributor is a good component to check. A bad distributor can cause timing issues or prevent the spark plugs from firing correctly, leading to poor engine performance.
The Ignition Coil
The ignition coil transforms low voltage electrical power from the battery into high voltage power needed to create a spark for the spark plugs. In the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram, the ignition coil is represented by the symbol “C,” and is usually located at the front of the engine. The ignition coil is connected to the distributor by a thin green wire, and to the battery by a thin pink wire.
If you are experiencing no spark or weak spark, the ignition coil is a good component to check. A bad coil can prevent the spark plugs from firing correctly, leading to poor engine performance or a complete failure to start.
FAQ
How do I know if my ignition system is working correctly?
There are several signs that can indicate issues with your Mustang’s ignition system, including difficulty starting the engine, misfires or rough running, and a complete failure to start. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to check the wiring diagram and test each component individually to identify the problem.
Can I upgrade my Mustang’s ignition system?
Yes, you can upgrade your Mustang’s ignition system to improve performance and reliability. Common upgrades include replacing the points-style ignition system with an electronic ignition system, upgrading the ignition coil and distributor, and installing a high-performance ignition module. However, it is important to understand the wiring diagram and ensure that all connections are made correctly to avoid any issues.
Can I troubleshoot my Mustang’s ignition system myself?
Yes, you can troubleshoot your Mustang’s ignition system yourself with a little knowledge and some basic tools. Start by checking the battery, starter solenoid, ignition switch, distributor, and ignition coil, as these are the most common components to fail or malfunction. Use a multimeter to test the electrical connections and ensure that each component is receiving power as it should.
Do I need any special tools to work on my Mustang’s ignition system?
While some specialized tools may be required for certain tasks, such as removing the distributor or testing the ignition coil, most of the work on the ignition system can be done with basic hand tools. A multimeter and some wire strippers and crimpers are also useful for testing electrical connections.
What are some common issues with the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram?
Common issues with the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram include bad connections, corroded wires or terminals, and faulty components such as the ignition switch or starter solenoid. Another common issue is incorrect modifications or upgrades, which can cause problems with the system if not installed correctly.
Conclusion
The 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram is a complex system that is crucial to the car’s performance and reliability. Understanding how the different components work together is essential to troubleshooting any issues you may encounter, as well as making modifications or upgrades to the system. By following the advice and information presented in this article, you can improve your understanding of the 68 Mustang ignition wiring diagram and keep your classic car running smoothly for years to come.
