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EFV-8 Club Forum / General Ford Discussion / 6V to 12V conversion

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Discussion Topic: 6V to 12V conversion -- page: 1 2 3 4

hotroddoc

11-08-2019 @ 12:08 PM

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I have a stock 36 5 window coupe with a 6 volt positive ground that I would like to convert to 12 volts. Among other things I am done with the low starter cranking speed.
What do I need to do other than replacing the generator and installing a voltage reducer for the gauges? Do I keep the positive ground or convert that to a negative ground?

Thanks,
Gary

11-08-2019 @ 2:37 PM

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Other than the "low starter cranking speed", what are the "other things" prompting you to convert to 12 volts?:...

CharlieStephens

11-08-2019 @ 3:15 PM

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I assume your cables are sized for 6 volts (they are larger than the modern 12 volt cables you get at the local auto parts store)? I also assume all of your connections are clean, you have added an extra ground strap (or 2), and had your starter tested by a shop that knows what they are doing?

My suggestion would be to convert to negative ground if you insist on doing it. It will allow you to run modern electronics and avoid the problem of someone hooking a replacement battery backwards because they know all 12 volt cars are negative ground. I hope you convert your generator to 12 volts and don't get one of those ugly alternators. Also convert your starter.

As MG asked, what are the other things?

Charlie Stephens

This message was edited by CharlieStephens on 11-8-19 @ 3:17 PM

kubes40

11-08-2019 @ 3:25 PM

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I too am curious about the "other things".
Heck, these old flatheads don't need to turn over very rapidly to start IF everything is in order.

Mike "Kube" Kubarth

hotroddoc

11-09-2019 @ 6:17 AM

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I am aware of the battery cable. How do I know if the correct battery cable is installed?
A new Optima 6V battery has been installed.
I just thought that a 12 Volt system would be more reliable. Last week I was stuck at a gas station because it would not turn over very well. My son rescued me with a jump.
I will check the starter button contact.
Thanks

kubes40

11-09-2019 @ 6:24 AM

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I'm willing to bet the "fix" will easy and cheap. It may take a bit to diagnose but hey, that's part of the fun of old cars!
GOOD grounds are paramount with these Fords.
You may want to have your starter professionally rebuilt. Or, NAPA sells reconditioned starters (GOOD quality) for around $125.
If your fuel and electrical systems are operating well, the car should start hot or cold within a couple of revolutions of the engine.
There's many good (knowledgeable) folks here that I am certain are more than willing to help.
Together, we'll get ya there!

Mike "Kube" Kubarth

51woodie

11-09-2019 @ 7:27 AM

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Hotrod. As Kubes said, these old engines start easily if all is in order. Good advice above on items to check/correct. My '46 Super Deluxe with 6V + ground, starts at a touch of the started button when warm, and turns over a few times when cold. I have a 6V lead acid battery from NAPA, but I have to admit that I did install a 6V + ground alternator by Powermaster, so charging is not an issue. It has always started in the three years that I have had the car.

kirkstad

11-09-2019 @ 8:10 AM

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I have a 36 coupe also and have no problems with starting. If the car has been sitting a week or more, I'll turn the starter until I see oil pressure on my mechanical gauge then start.When the engine is warm it will start within one or two turns. Many years ago when I replaced all the original wiring I took the starter apart and cleaned allot of surface rust off the armature and field coils,you might try that.

hotroddoc

11-09-2019 @ 9:41 AM

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Thank you everyone for your input.
Where you suggest adding the additional grounding cables?

1934 Ford

11-09-2019 @ 10:24 AM

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Replace both your battery cables with 0000 ones from a starter/generator shop with soldered & swedged on cable ends.
You'll think you have 12 Volts when the ground is good an the starter gets enough voltage.
The 6 volt cables are as big as your thumb, 12 volt cables are like a pencil in size. Then keep them clean.

1934 Ford's since 1972

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