Very interesting what you say about the strut/shell dimensions, as I'm looking at a few to see if this is the case, as someone else is having problems that seem to be down to a narrower shell/chassis on some 3 door!!
WIRE COLOURS,
thin green is tacho
red/blue is permanent live
black is SWITCHED LIVE(from ignition)
black/red fuel pump live
brown/white temp sender GAUGE
brown/red air con, this will go to a purple relay holder normally taped to the side of the loom around the relay area
The above is for a 2wd sapphy loom, tacho wire is often in the CAR loom, as ford liked to change thgings a bit.
Just ignore air con(unless fitted)
tabetha