Zarwerks Wiring Harnesses

[johnshenry]

Got a message yesterday from one of my suppliers who supplies 90% of the materials, and the black cotton looming service, that they are closed as of today. I have been using them for the last 22 years in the manufacture of the split window Beetle harnesses that I make. While my harness kit business is just a hobby for me and I don't pay any bills with the proceeds from them, this is still very disappointing.

There may be some hope however. Apparently one of the employees of this very small company bought all of the stock and machinery and intends to re-open the business under a new name and location. They are actively looking for a new building to set up in.

In 2003 I needed a new harness for a 1950 sunroof that I had just bought and couldn't find anyone making them correctly. So I endeavored to make my own. I made 3 and sold the other two very quickly. Over the decades, I have perfected my processes in this little mini-business. From spreadsheets that generate order lists for raw wire stock, to writing my own installation guide (now in it's 10th revision) to keeping track of inventory, this has been a fun little business. By a slight majority, most of the kits I sell go out of the USA. But by far, the best gratification is seeing my wires used in so many incredible builds. Enthusiasts seem to be genuinely happy with my product and tell me that often.

Unfortunately my existing inventory of shippable product is near zero. But I will start up again if this company re-establishes itself. To my knowledge, there is nowhere else to get all of the correct cloth covered wires and, especially, the looming service.

I remain hopeful and will post an update here if I get additional news.
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John Henry

'57 Deluxe
'56 Single Cab

[VW_Jimbo]

Hopefully they can get something going! It is always a sad day when a supplier folds. But, for one action, an equal and opposite will take place! Sounds like it is underway!

What happened to your 57 Deluxe thread? I keep getting a no longer available message. I referenced that thread often!

Got a copy you are willing to send my way?

Thanks!
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Jimbo

There is never enough time to do it right the first time, but all the time necessary the second time!

[Two Glove Boxes]

John, I understand your pain, and I am very hopeful this all works out. Just like I've told you in person, your harnesses are a true work of art and the best reproduction item you can even get for a period-correct split.
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1950 Deluxe Sedan Build

1951 Split Standard Hoffman Build

1960 Dove Blue Double Cab Patina Build

Two Glove Boxes IG

[David]

[johnshenry]

GREAT NEWS!

I just called RIW's number and spoke to the new owner, Mike Smalls. He only started answering calls in person 3 days ago. I told him who I was and he said "I know who you are". He is opening the new business in the area of the old one, it is called "Small's Auto Wiring". He does not have a website or an e-mail at this time (and sounds pretty overwhelmed!). He says they are taking braiding jobs now but don't quite have all wire in stock now. And he has re-hired the woman who ran the front end operation/order processing for at least the last 10 years.

This is very good news. I was getting sad seeing all these split beetle/Cabrio/Heb build threads/posts and dreaded being contacted for a harness and would have to say "Sorry, I don't make them any more".

We left it with "Call back early February". I will started building up a material order now for a new run.
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John Henry

'57 Deluxe
'56 Single Cab