[HoovDaddy]

I installed a Painless kit in a '73 Z28 2 years ago. It was vehicle specific for 2nd gen. It all worked fine, most connectors were already assembled, plug and play, sending units and steering column were not assembled. It was all factory style Packard connectors like original. However some of the lengths were way too long, requiring me to purchase additional connectors and cutting the wires to fit. Some connectors has to be taken apart and rewired for different years and options, kind of a pain. This kit has new style fuses but old style relays and flashers. Installation of this kit was like installing aftermarket repop kits from a design standpoint, but much better quality.

Last summer I rewired our Firebird and chose American Autowire Classic Update kit specifically for the '69 Firebird. I went with this kit due to aftermarket gauges and contains wires for other customizable features. I went with an electronic speedo, and the wiring is already connected to the fuse box and dash harness. I also did console gauges and the wiring is long enough. This kit is all OEM Packard style but upgraded with new style fuses, flashers and relays. This kit requires every connector to be assembled by hand which I liked. It also allows additional wires to be attached at the bulkhead or wires removed that are not needed. The wire feeds are extra long so you can route them any way you want, just cut the wires and assemble the connectors, custom fit. The AAW kit includes extra grounds everywhere which is a plus. Includes plenty of feeds for interior lighting also. Includes wiring for 3 different ignition systems including points. Also includes wiring for OEM instrument cluster or as said aftermarket gauges. You choose which wires to use for ignition and cluster. Does not include OEM style air conditioning harness, but does have heater wiring. Convertible top harness is available. AAW also has an OEM style directional signal switch that is plug and play, no adapter. New headlight switch, and dimmer switches are included. Heavy duty starter wiring and master fuse for the entire system is also included.

For my application on this car, the AAW kit was much better.