I have a 1951 F-1 with a flathead v-8. I want to convert it to a 12volt system. I was told to purchase a 1970s' alternator, which I did already.What sort of mounting bracket conversion do I need to mount the alternator where the generator goes? Also, does anyone in the Central NJ area have any experience with doing rewire jobs?

 

I bought a slingshot style for GM 1-wire off ebay, from Certified Auto Electric. What alternator did you buy? You'll likely need the correct pulley for a wide belt. You may be better off starting over and buying a complete set-up.

You should do a search on alternator conversions, this has been discussed in great detail for the flatheads and for the chassis wiring changes needed. As far as wiring, you ought to take it to a pro unless you have some experience, and it needs to be a pro who is familiar with old cars and trucks. A mistake could be painful, and costly, and depending whether your truck is already 12v negative ground or not. It isn't a simple matter of plugging in the alternator where the generator was. All this is covered in previous threads, you ought to print them out. It affects gauges, wipers, heater fan, all light bulbs, coil, and more.

It is also important to check your existing wiring to see if it needs outright replacement, I would be amazed if it doesn't (if it's stock).

 

Albuq F-1,
The alternator is a Delco-Remy self energizing GMC 1wire type. Thanks, I will get the threads for the alternator conversions.

 

Ask again if you can't find what you need! Personally, I think an alternator and 12v negative ground conversion is the single best thing I've done to my truck!

 

I am nearing the completion of getting an alternator on my 52 F-3. I also got my slingshot from Certified Auto Electric on ebay. I got the alternator, a Delco 10SI and DA plug wire from ebay too. A local alternator shop sold me the correct diameter and width pulley. You will need a longer belt, which you can get from NAPA. I am doing a 3-wire rather than a 1-wire installation. You will need Runtz voltage regulators on your Fuel, Oil, and Temp gauges. Reverse the direction of the wire that passes by the inductive ammeter (BATT) gauge. Buy a 12 Volt ignition coil with internal ballast resistor, either NAPA Echlin #IC64 or Standard Ignition #UC-15. You will need 12 Volt lamps and battery (Optima batteries are nice). If you have radio or electric wipers, I would have them rebuilt for 12 Volts.

I've taken pictures of the process and I might submit a tech article on the process.