"Extra" wires with bundle for gas tank sending unit

[Geoff63]

When replacing the gas tank sending unit on my 63R1, I found two white wires in the same wiring bundle as the sending unit wiring.  The wires were not connected to anything and had the ends covered in electrical tape.  Can anyone explain the original purpose for these wires before I seal up the tank vault hoping never to enter again?

Thanks

Geoff

[regnalbob]

Could be the ground wires for the rear seat speaker.

[mfg]

As per Studebaker Avanti shop manual, the white wire is part of the body ground circuit supplying a ground to optional rear speaker.

[Geoff63]

Thanks to both of you for the feedback.  You confirmed what I suspected but I had a preconceived view that speaker wires would be black.

[Skip Lackie]

On 8/29/2024 at 7:57 AM, Geoff63 said:

Thanks to both of you for the feedback.  You confirmed what I suspected but I had a preconceived view that speaker wires would be black.

You would be correct if you were dealing with a GM vehicle.  Black is always ground on them.  Not so on Avantis.