Creating a do all manual.

[OFC Ranger]

Setting aside my own pride I am looking at creating a massive write up that covers about every facet of modifications in a manual style guide. With the extensive modifications to my truck and in special regards to electrical systems it would be probably be prudent to have something like this for myself as well as any future possible owner if I sold it.

While the manual would be orientated to my specific modifications, the information could easily be applied for others to utilize. Each "diagram" page would also be accompanied by a "real photo" of said items. My big thing is I want to keep each "page" as simple as possible and not junk it up by shoving too much into the viewers eyes at one time.

So here is an example page; it is the "general overview" top down look of the engine bay and exterior mapping items. I would then for example break down into further details the engine bay, the front, the middle, and the rear into their own diagrams or write-ups. Of course interior would also be a section.

Edit: So for example an engine bay diagram would be a zoom-in of the below diagram, but also show graphics for what electrical lines go where. Then a real photo would also accompany it.

A diagram would go on to explain the purpose of each item, like junction boxes, as well as the before mentioned real photo for visuals. Keep in mind anything shown is not for factory purpose, but for modification purposes, so each tapping point for example would be explained in more detail as to its function as it relates to non-factory possibilities (or in my case, what I actually use it for).

Any feed back or suggestions as I piece this together? @P. A. Schilke @Msfitoy @Frenchy @D Fresh

I know for people viewing this who have not seen my truck a diagram like this would look odd because the roof platform is not present, the guide would have some exterior visuals of my truck prior to diving into the schematic type stuff so they understand better what it is they are looking at.

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[P. A. Schilke]

Hi Jack,

I worthy and noble project. I might suggest you also indicate where some mods did not work to your satisfaction so you are explaining what was tried but not where your truck is now. That way folks know what did not work as well as what worked. Might keep some from going down that "rat hole" and why do not go there.... Make sense?

At Ford, we ran tons of testing and the key was document, document and document. How, why and the results. Many documents ended up being useful to our legal beagles too...

Best,
Phil

 

[OFC Ranger]

Hi Jack,

I worthy and noble project. I might suggest you also indicate where some mods did not work to your satisfaction so you are explaining what was tried but not where your truck is now. That way folks know what did not work as well as what worked. Might keep some from going down that "rat hole" and why do not go there.... Make sense?

At Ford, we ran tons of testing and the key was document, document and document. How, why and the results. Many documents ended up being useful to our legal beagles too...

Best,
Phil

But journaling my failures or re-iterations would be embarrassing!

But a good idea. Some things I've changed around where due to personal preferences, but some people may end up liking something different.

 

[Bob902]

The wiring description and diagrams for all the electrical work would be beneficial for electrically challenged people like me?. Looks like a ton of work but very noble project.

 

[DHMag]

I have found to put ideas on paper and 100% idiot proof is a major undertaking as well as mildy frustrating. Good luck with the project !

 

[OFC Ranger]

So another example of a page that would accompany the diagram from above.

Like I said, I want to find a sweet spot of keeping each page as simple as possible. Yea it increases page count, but I can't think of another method without inducing information overload.

 

[Frenchy]

I feel you are on the right path here. If anything I recommend some of the basic Microsoft computer programs for basic wiring diagrams. I can't remember the name of said program but you would essentially start with a block type grid(like grid sheet paper) and you can color said lines for each wire and name it.

I'm sure you have other programs for detailed layout of the engine and what not.

 

[D Fresh]

I think it's a great idea. With the extent of your electrical modifications it would almost be a necessity for anybody purchasing your truck.

I would keep it as simple as possible visually. I'm betting your wires are probably labeled pretty good. A simple line diagram would be more than enough I would think. This could save you a bit of effort.

For the old truck I bought I got an Excel spreadsheet detailing the build and that's it.

@airline tech would be a good person to get input from as well. He's good at searching through documentation and would likely have some thoughts.

 

[OFC Ranger]

I'm betting your wires are probably labeled pretty good.

 

[OFC Ranger]

I feel you are on the right path here. If anything I recommend some of the basic Microsoft computer programs for basic wiring diagrams. I can't remember the name of said program but you would essentially start with a block type grid(like grid sheet paper) and you can color said lines for each wire and name it.

I'm sure you have other programs for detailed layout of the engine and what not.

I am currently using a program called DRAW.IO

I also on occasion use a website app called Virtual Graph.

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

It’s a great undertaking. Helpful for sure but creating something like this will likely keep you up at night.

Oh, wait…

All kidding aside, I think you’re bang on with your goal of simplicity and ease of use. As you’ve learned first-hand, many of these mods, especially electrical, are confusing enough on their own without having documentation that makes things even harder to understand.

You have a structured approach to the work you do on your truck and your wiring already looks like schematic diagrams - almost seems like you use a visualization process in your planning. I have no doubt this project will be as well thought out and executed.

You’re already off to a good start - no matter which direction you might take it, all I can offer is stick to the KISS principle.

 

[OFC Ranger]

Hey now wait a minute, I woke up at 430AM not still awake...

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