Originally Posted by
Jarkar
I'm not sure of your electrical abilities, but what most people don't realize when "messing" with electric, is even tho you have a black and white wire (typically). The electric only travels "through" the bulbs, not really a + and - like a battery. The 3rd wire is either a ground (not a "neutral"), or it was on a "3way" switch, being controlled by 2 wall switches.
So, from your description, you would want to replicate what it has. I think you're right on the 3rd wire being ground, which is not usually used unless your in a "high tech" code building. None of my lights use this 3rd ground, the entire house wiring would need to be linked all together for this to be effective. The wire layout you describe would allow the bulbs to stay lit, even if one burned out. I would suggest soldering the wires at the connections, wire nut, and tape securely. Also, you only need 14 or possibly 16 gauge wire on the lamp harness. Enjoy!