I need to convert a Ford Powermaster 941 tractor over to 12 volts. I've found a few sites that describe what needs done and even offer kits, but I can't find anything for this model. Seems like it might be just as easy to do it myself.

I'll need a GM alternator (would be cool to put a Ford one in there though , but it sounds like it's easiest with the GM.) Coil with internal resistor, wiring, and obviously a battery.

I like wiring and don't have a problem with making my own harness, but I need to know where to go with it. I may get rid of the amp meter and put a voltmeter in instead. The small 2 wire connector on the alternator is what I'm not sure about. Do I need an indicator light? I've read both ways.

Thanks for any help. I know it's not too major a project as it's been done all the time, it's just something I've never done yet.

 

try the forum at yesterdaystractors.com they know the old stuff inside n out

 

Two guys garage did a Ford tractor 12V conversion on one of their episodes..

Here is a link to the episode..

Two Guys Garage on SPEED: Episode 626

I couldn't find exact info on their site, but it must be there.. Maybe in the forum..

 

use a one wire delco alternator and one wire has to go to starter solinoid
with two wire delco one one wire to solinoid and one wire to ignition switch
for volt meter one wire from ignition switch and one to ground
put resistor on coil and you are there
you may have to use a 12V starter solinoid

 

yup try at yesterdays tractors or here Antique Tractors Forum :: Index theres a guy in the ford section thats pretty top notch

 

I've done a bunch of 12v conversions on old Ford tractors, and I can tell ya that just about everyone you ask will give you a different method. I've used kits and I've done it "by the piece", too. The thing I like about the kits is the prefab mounting brackets. No horsing around trying to modify or fabricate the brackets. And I've seen some pretty sad "farmer fabbed" mounting brackets along the way, too.

On some installations, the one-wire alternator has proven to be a bit bothersome to some owners due to the need of revving the engine quite a bit to get it to self-excite. Running the smallest pulley possible on the alternator to speed it up is definitely recommended.

Wiring is pretty simple, even on the 3-wire Delco. Generally requires either a diode or small bulb in the ignition-hot lead going to the alternator. The small bulb will act as a "charge" light, and provide enough load to prevent backfeeding the coil, which would keep the engine running even if you turn the key off. I think I still have some diagrams I drew up of the way we normally do a 1-wire and a 3-wire conversion, but they're on my computer at the shop.

You may have already been there by now, but I echo the yesterdaystractors plug. Great site for old tractor lovers.

Here's an 8N I restored some years ago:

 

I did some more searching and looked at yesterdaystracors. You're right, seems like everyone does it slightly different. I ordered a kit so hopefully that'll do it. I'm still a little unsure of the coil. Sounds like if I get a 12v coil that doesn't require a resistor it should work.