I am thinking of putting a 8 volt battery into stock 6 volt system instead of converting to a 12 volt. I was wondering if anyone out there has done this and if I could get an help on what i need to change if i run the 8 volt. Im being told that the engine will turn over much faster and my lites will be brighter , which are my main issues at this point. Does anyone out there make a 6 volt halgen headlite.

 

Well, the 8V would be easier, but you may experience shorter bulb life than normal. I had an old 50 Pontiac years ago with the straight 8 and used an 8V in it. I was lucky in that all the bulbs seemed to last okay. Changing to 12V would be better but it means wiring changes, 12V generator/regulator or alternator, 12V coil, 12V horn relay, bulbs, instrument voltage reducer, 12V wipers if you have electric, 12V heater motor, installing a ballast resistor or using a resistor coil, and probably some other things I probably haven't thought of. Your 6V horns and starter would probably be okay on 12V...

 

Julie's Cool F1 - 12V Conversion Docs

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...2-battery.html

 

If slow cranking is your main complaint, the problem may be in the starter. These didn't ever crank over fast tho, they were famous for a low growl, slow spinning start. Nothing like modern cars. Have someone who is familiar with flatheads listen to it. Remember, these trucks came with a hand-crank and it was not that big a problem to start them that way (I'm told, anyway). They don't need fast cranking to start.

8v is about the worst solution IMO. Almost as much work as 12v but none of the benefits.

 

I had an 8V,but, you need to set the regulator up to charge 8V.
Could never get it set properly and went back to 6- 5 yrs ago.
Get a good 6 from Tractor Supply which I did.
No probs starting.

 

6 volt works fine. Make sure you have #1 or larger starter cables with clean grounds and tight nuts.

Wagner made a batch of 6V halogen sealed beam bulbs last year. You might be able to find a set on e-pay.

 

I am running 8V. All you need to do is step up the voltage regulator to charge at 9.2V. My local starter/generator shop did that for me. Many years ago it was common to run 8V. My bulbs hold up just fine but I do not drive much at night.