I just helped my wife buy a '72 Super Beetle. The previous owner rigged the high beams and runners to two "direct-connect" toggle switches. This caused the flashers, backup and brake lights to disappear. I'm approximately ten seconds from tearing the whole harness out and re-wiring the entire system, but I'm very new at electronics (aside from installing LED lights in skateboards and gas masks.)

The system is a 12V conversion, with the standard 12 fuses (10 8A and 2 16A.) The car is a Type 1 1600 dual-port. He told me the turn signals were hit-or-miss, but I see nothing wrong with the wires or terminals.

What I have done:
-Isolated the front light cluster
-Worked on isolating the rear cluster
-Traced all the wires from the light switch and turn signal switch to the harness

What I need:
-Info on what gauge wire to use
-Helpful instructions on using a multimeter to check my systems
-Tips on organizing the separate clusters so they are not all a tangle byt the harness.

Many have told me that simply tearing it out and starting fresh is better and can be done in 2 days, while suggesting that I fork over the cash to have them do it (about $500 was the best offer.) I think I can safely redo this, but want your input.

-A very confused Bug Owner

 

PS: I have several pictures of the wiring, before/after, in my FB. Once I get comfy, I can post them here.