Hitchcocks Forum

I am currently rebuilding a 1958 Crusader which was in pieces and am trying to sort out the wiring. I have a workshop manual, but the colours given in the manual does not correlate with those on the bike. Were different looms maybe used at the time? Has anyone perhaps got a wiring diagram for a 1958 crusader available so that I could compare it with the one I have?

Thanks

BV, there is a Yahoo Group for the 250s at http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Cru ... cal_group/ and in the Files section you will find the wiring diagram plus much more. Come and introduce yourself! And yes, the colours did change over the years.
REgards, Mark

BV, If I was doing it I'd change to 12v as per http://www.classicmotorcycles.org.uk/c1 ... ersion.htm but instead of the rectifier and zenor diode use a modern powerbox type thing.

If you are rebuilding the bike from bits and pieces, just forget about the old wiring and start from scratch. Sorting out a “birds nest” of unspecified wiring is more difficult and potentially more time consuming than just starting from scratch, fitting all lamps, switchgear etc. loosely on the bike and then stretching the wires according to the diagram. Make notes as you proceed in case you have to alter the colour codes etc. When finished you have a complete and correct “as built” diagram for your own bike, for future reference. I did this on my G in 2002 and have not had a single electrical problem since, except for the old Lucas regulator that finally got enough and fried the dynamo before it died. But that had nothing to do with the wiring. I have also done the same thimg to another bike with a little messy electrical system, with the same successful result. Regards, Anders F. R.

Thanks for everyone's advice . I have now joined the yahoo group as suggested and found the wiring diagram there - same as the one I have in my manual though. I will see how things go and maybe look more seriously at redoing the wiring from scratch - sounds like a good idea - the only thing holding me back at this moment from doing it is the fact that it seems generally speaking quite OK and in a good condition - just a bit confusing, as the colours differ. I think I have most of the wires correctly wired now (if I compare it with my manual). I have replaced the sprocket as well as the engine cover gaskets and seals and have now got the engine in the frame. It's time for electrics before I can get an idea of the state of the engine. It turns over nicely and there seems to be good compression, so it's "touch wood". I got the bike in boxes - all parts from the same bike though, so not too difficult to get together. I live in New Zealand and parts for old Royal Enfields are a bit scarce here, but up to now I have been successful in getting from Hitckocks what I needed.

I've just rewired a crusader sport 12V, Neg earth with a sym scooter reg/rect unit, indicators and full edarth returns. email me on agswookieAThotmailDOTcom and I'll try and scan my diagram. I intend to pop it on my blog eventually.