Wiring progresses...
Got the vacuum lines to the A/C-Heat controls figured out, and wired up the power to the system. All fan speeds work as they should, and the various doors all move in proper relation to the mode selected on the controls.
Also got many of the various switches hooked up. Found I need a double pole, double throw, momentary switch for the rear defroster. Did some research and ordered that.
I wired up the rear window switch. The switch on the center stack (pictured) will work with the key on or off, and triggers relays at the back of the vehicle.
Like so many others have found, my rear key switch is DOA. I decided to use a toggle switch mounted on the body, just to the left of the rear window. The only problem was, how do I make it so someone cannot just come along and roll my rear window down? My first solution was to have it only work with the ignition key in the "on" position, but I felt that would quickly become a real pain. So I came up with a switch that will turn the relays on only when the driver's door lock is in the unlocked position.
Here's the switch. It's part of a flip-floping switch that I unbolted from its solenoid. I made an extended arm from an old A/C-Heat control lever, and attached it to the unit.
Then I made a bracket to mount the assembly on the door, and used a couple hose clamps mounted on the lock rod to act on the lever.
Works every time!
And for the critter shot; these are (most likely) the Blue Mud Dauber. Apparently, these little guys hunt down spiders to stung and lay their eggs on. From what I have read, they have a penchant for the Black Widow, though I cannot say if such is really the case.
Just what they are doing on my little side deck I have no idea. I don't know if they're competing for spiders, doing some sort of mating ritual, or just helping themselves to whatever mold or fungus is growing on the wood.
Whatever they're doing, they sure have a cool looking paint job!
