1951 F-3 electrical issues
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 24
Likes: 3
1951 F-3 electrical issues
Hi all, new to the boards here, I just purchased a 1951 F-3, and it has several electrical issues, not least of which is that it isn't charging. The truck is still 6 volt, and I was hoping that someone here might have a wiring diagram/schematic for her so I can chase out the charging and lighting systems. I am going to fully re-wire the truck and convert to 12 volt in the future, but for now due to funding issues I have to keep the old 6 volt system alive, so I'd love to hear any tips or tricks anyone might have. Any help would be appreciated, thanks!
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,776
Likes: 553
From: Kalispell, MT
Here's some odds and ends you can tuck away for reference:
I imagine you're aware of the quirks of generators? They don't put out current below approx. 1200 rpms so if you've only had the truck at idle speed it won't charge.....
Also, generators require longer runs to bring the battery up to full charge.
Also, the gauges in these trucks are woefully inaccurate.
Don't tighten belts like modern trucks/cars. Keep 3/4 - 1" deflection in the belt like the shop manual shows. Too tight will result in bearing problems in the generator, waterpumps and fan hub.
I imagine you're aware of the quirks of generators? They don't put out current below approx. 1200 rpms so if you've only had the truck at idle speed it won't charge.....
Also, generators require longer runs to bring the battery up to full charge.
Also, the gauges in these trucks are woefully inaccurate.
Don't tighten belts like modern trucks/cars. Keep 3/4 - 1" deflection in the belt like the shop manual shows. Too tight will result in bearing problems in the generator, waterpumps and fan hub.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,294
Likes: 1,055
From: NM
This is a very useful site, with all the electrical schematics you want. Not specifically for an F-3, but I can't think what differences there would be. Don't forget, these are POSITIVE ground vehicles!!
Ford Flathead Engines - VanPelt Parts & Service
Ford Flathead Engines - VanPelt Parts & Service
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,373
Likes: 6
From: Moore (or less), OK.
Another thing that jacks folks up with generators is that if they forget to polarize the generator when they replace the battery, then the generator will not charge the battery.
I believe you need to jumper a wire from the positive on the battery to the positive pole on the generator. Don't leave it connected, just brush it briefly.
I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong.
I believe you need to jumper a wire from the positive on the battery to the positive pole on the generator. Don't leave it connected, just brush it briefly.
I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong.
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,776
Likes: 553
From: Kalispell, MT
Polarization on early flatheads was with a jumper wire but not on these. This model you disconnect the field wire at the regulator and briefly touch it to the batt connection on the regulator. Light blue spark. Then reconnect and you're good to go.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 24
Likes: 3
Thanks for the info everybody, it's been a very long time since i've dealt with 6 volt stuff, so I was feeling a bit rusty. After spending the afternoon under the hood the issue has been traced to a stone-dead generator AND voltage regulator. On further inspection it was discovered that the brushes in the gen were so worn they might as well have not even been there. Luckily I was able to source replacements for the gen and regulator locally and will be installing them later tonight, should take care of that.
Trending Topics
Posting Guru
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,272
Likes: 3
if your brushes are that bad, then the gen bearings are due to be replaced. also, the commutator should be cut on lathe so that brushes make full contact. failure to do this will have you po,ed when it won't fully charge and eats up those new brushes. (just my 2 cents)
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,373
Likes: 6
From: Moore (or less), OK.
Are you replacing the brushes or the whole generator?
Is there a re-builder in your area?
I had a starter on my Harley go out and instead of paying $300 for a new one I had it rebuilt at a local shop for $75.
Is there a re-builder in your area?
I had a starter on my Harley go out and instead of paying $300 for a new one I had it rebuilt at a local shop for $75.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
beckman
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
19
Mar 13, 2022 06:54 AM
Raptorgap
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
20
Jun 8, 2017 09:58 PM
brit_wheels_fan
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
15
Jun 25, 2013 03:13 PM
JimmyHat52
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
2
May 29, 2001 12:23 AM
