battery generator problems

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Sep 11, 2014 | 07:54 PM

easyrider47

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battery generator problems

hi

1950 239 ci flathead v8 with 6 volt system...........

losing charge in battery.........will be running tests on battery and generator tomorrow..............have been told the battery is insufficient for this vehicle.........and should upgrade quality/capability of battery.........$
200 +

...........if indeed I need to replace generator and/or upgrade battery....looking at $400 plus if both needed.........should I begin considering changing over to 12 volt system instead of putting more money into 6 volt system ?

..........I do not intend to add electrical options, keeping truck with the same basic components it came with...............however, would the conversion make sense for overall performance, maintenance, and costs ?

thanks

Sep 11, 2014 | 08:08 PM

raytasch

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From: W. Central FL.

What are the credentials of the person suggesting the battery is insufficient for the vehicle? A stock truck does not require much battery. A commercial grade battery from NAPA, Tractor Supply, or other farm store should be sufficient. Rebuilding a generator is not that hard or expensive. A regulator should cost less than $50.

Sep 11, 2014 | 08:24 PM

FortyNiner

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From: u-rah-rah Wisconsin

I'm with Ray. The problem isn't the battery. My 6v 'battery' problem disappeared after rebuilding the generator.

Sep 12, 2014 | 08:29 AM

38 coupe

Cargo Master

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From: Houston

6V is very reliable if everything is in good condition. I think most 12V conversions are done because someone isn't willing to put in the time to restore the 6V parts. I have driven cross country in 6V cars with no issues. The only reasons I would consider a move to 12V are air conditioning or you are hot rodding your truck.

Sep 12, 2014 | 09:21 AM

easyrider47

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thanks...learning daily

my sincere thank you to all............you continue to be great help !

............this is exactly what I had hoped for when I bought the f1........!

.............decided to stay with the 6 volt system...........will not be adding anything to the basic truck...............found my problem...........bad battery............the generator has tested fine............am putting a new voltage regulator on this pm...the old makes a lot of noise..........

..........here's a hoot.............took inside door panels off this am to lubricate the window mechanisms and found about a pound of red clay dust in the bottom the right side door !!!!(the truck came out of Oklahoma)...........put some in a glass jar to show off and keep as one of hopefully several fun memories .................

thanks again for your help............I know more questions will be coming...............my knowledge of mechanics is like a cup of water in a 5 gallon bucket...........hopefully it will continue to grow.....love the learning !

Sep 12, 2014 | 09:36 AM

raytasch

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From: W. Central FL.

Thanks for the update. Make sure you get all the dirt out of the doors, have the drain holes open and make sure the doors are dry inside.

Sep 14, 2014 | 02:10 PM

easyrider47

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thanks again for your input..............solved the problem..........turned out to be a bad battery...........unable to hold a charge............the generator tested fine and is charging...........new voltage regulator working fine..........quietly too, I might add.............

......thanks for your suggestion on checking door drainage holes........will do.........

......next project is sagging, out of alignment passenger side door...........

........this is fun !!!