12V conversion
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Junior User
Joined: May 2003
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From: Northern Ca
12V conversion
It's been over 40 years since I fooled with a 6V system but I just bought a '48 that hasn't been started in over 4 years. I'm thinking that now is the time to upgrade from the 6V to a 12V. I can handle the wiring but am unsure if about the dash gages. I remember years ago, JC Whitney sold voltage reducers. Can I get by in using a voltage reducer to the gages?
Another question...can I use the existing generator and just upgrade the voltage regulator? If so, which year regulator can I use?
Another question...can I use the existing generator and just upgrade the voltage regulator? If so, which year regulator can I use?
Last edited by Kikko; Nov 22, 2006 at 09:10 AM.
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,777
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From: Kalispell, MT
The swap over is pretty simple. The stock wiring is heavy enough to handle 12V so unless you're replacing old ratty wire you don't need to change it. Also a good time to go to Neg ground. Only change for that is re-route the wire thru the ammeter from the other side.
Gauges - some guys go to the bother of using a Runtz brand reducer on each gauge, but it isn't necessary. One reducer attached to the power line between the ignition switch and the gauges takes care of it. Ford used 6V gauges thru the mid 70's at least and used a voltage reducer to step down to 6. Salvage yard or parts house can furnish one.
Generator - Ford used a generator thru '64. So 12V field coils in your 6V generator will put out enough to keep your lights bright and battery charged OR just find a 12V generator (57-64)
You'll also need a 12V coil, voltage regulator, starter solenoid, light bulbs and an ignition resistor. I just go to NAPA and ask for parts for a 57 Ford truck. For the ceramic ignition resistor I ask for one for a 71 Chrysler (just my preference) that bolts to the firewall.
Thats probably more than you wanted to know. Have a good time with it.
Gauges - some guys go to the bother of using a Runtz brand reducer on each gauge, but it isn't necessary. One reducer attached to the power line between the ignition switch and the gauges takes care of it. Ford used 6V gauges thru the mid 70's at least and used a voltage reducer to step down to 6. Salvage yard or parts house can furnish one.
Generator - Ford used a generator thru '64. So 12V field coils in your 6V generator will put out enough to keep your lights bright and battery charged OR just find a 12V generator (57-64)
You'll also need a 12V coil, voltage regulator, starter solenoid, light bulbs and an ignition resistor. I just go to NAPA and ask for parts for a 57 Ford truck. For the ceramic ignition resistor I ask for one for a 71 Chrysler (just my preference) that bolts to the firewall.
Thats probably more than you wanted to know. Have a good time with it.
Last edited by mtflat; Nov 22, 2006 at 09:43 AM.
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Junior User
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 95
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From: Northern Ca
mtflat, thanks alot! That's exactly the info that I was looking for.
This '48 is all original so I think I will replace some if not all the wiring but right now, I'd like to empty/flush the tank, check the brakes, change fluids and see if I can get it started.
This '48 is all original so I think I will replace some if not all the wiring but right now, I'd like to empty/flush the tank, check the brakes, change fluids and see if I can get it started.
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 15,882
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From: Durham NC
A rewire is a good idea if you plan to add any additional acessories since it did not originally have a fuse panel just a couple breakers, plus 60 year old cloth covered wiring is a fire looking for a place to start.
