Wire Loom

Are the wires hanging loose in the engine bay and rubbing against sharp edges? Wire loom bundles the cables and shields the insulation from wear and dirt. Here you will find products for you if you are running a new wiring harness, restoring an old one or simply want a tidier engine bay.

Types of wire loom

The category includes several solutions, e.g. from NAMZ:

• Braided expandable sleeving that is pulled over the wire bundle and is available on a roll or in shorter lengths, also in colours such as blue, green, orange and red.
• Split sleeving made of woven fabric that can be wrapped around wires that are already installed.
• Black PVC tubing in fixed lengths.
• Foam protection with adhesive tape, e.g. as a replacement for the original part at the rear fender.

How to choose type and size

Measure the thickness of the bundle and compare it with the inside diameter, which is stated in inches, e.g. 1/8, 3/8 or 3/4 inch. Braided sleeving can typically expand, but if it has to go over a connector, it must be able to open enough for that and still fit snugly around the thinner sections. Split sleeving is practical when you do not want to remove connectors from an existing wiring harness. If the protection is to sit close to the exhaust manifold or turbo, the heat resistance depends on the specific material, so check the specification. Choose a roll for a complete project and shorter lengths for individual repairs.

Installation and the rest of the wiring harness

Make sure the bundle is not stretched tight over moving parts, and secure it so it cannot chafe through the protection over time. If you are building a new wiring harness, wires and cables, connectors and terminals and relays are typically part of the job. For a complete system, a ready-made wiring harness can be an alternative.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between braided expandable sleeving and split sleeving?

Expandable sleeving is pulled over the wires from one end and fits snugly around the bundle. Split sleeving can be wrapped around wires that are already installed, so you do not need to remove connectors.

Which diameter should I choose?

Measure the bundle at its thickest point and compare it with the stated inside diameter. If the expandable sleeving has to go over a connector, it must be able to expand enough for that without sitting loosely on the rest of the run.

How do I prevent braided sleeving from fraying at the ends?

Cut ends can fray. They can typically be secured with heat shrink tubing or tape, but the best method depends on the material, so check the instructions for the specific product.