6V or 12V

The question is why would you want to convert to 12v ?
Do you need 12v fo a specific purpose ?
Or is it time for an overhaul cause something aint working as it should.
 
I found no good reason to change to 12v. So NO.

Why would you is probably better question?
 
From my perspective, you are better off finding and fixing whatever is giving you problems with your 6 volt system. Usually it's bad connections/grounds of some sort. Some have changed and are happy, some have changed and still are chasing problems around. My '48 truck is 6 volts and works just fine just like Henry made it!!
 
That depends on a number of factors. 6 volt positive ground is fine as long as the system components are compatible with a 6 volt system and all the grounds, and connections are clean and tight. If you want to convert to 12 volt negative ground to be able to use 12 volt accessories as well as easy availability of 12 volt components, it is a relativity easy conversion.
 
I have converted to 12 volts but if you are not planning on installing electric windows,wipers and any of the 12 volt goodies that require it, there is no reason to change over.
 
51 MERC-CT said:
I have converted to 12 volts but if you are not planning on installing electric windows,wipers and any of the 12 volt goodies that require it, there is no reason to change over.
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A very good reason to convert to 12 volts, is the availability of 12 volt components at most, if not all auto parts stores (try getting a 6 volt solenoid off the shelf at Advance Auto, etc.).:eek: While it is true that you can stash a bunch of 6 volt components in the trunk, just incase you need to fix something while out for a drive, you can do the same with 12 volt parts and be able to replenish your supply at the next auto parts store you drive past.;)
 
Vic let me get this straight. I had the great pleasure of riding shotgun in you beautiful 39 convertible for over an hour up to Ocala in speeds in excess of 70 mph. Now I find out I may have had to sleep roadside if we broke down?:)

A story to tell my grand kids......
 
Andy, you didn't look in the trunk...;) I always carry a good 6 volt generator, voltage regulator, coil and solenoid in my 6 volt negative ground vehicles...:) You know what they say, any extra parts you bring along, you won't be needing.:D
 
earlyride said:
If you like seeing where your driving at night, 12 volts is a good idea
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Same power in a 6v sealed beam as in a 12v....if all wiring is fine no difference.
If you have a voltage drop and bad grounding...and it takes more cause the higher current at 6V...then there might be problems.
 
You don't say why you are contemplating the change. I converted only because there wasn't anything left to the electrical system when I started my truck rebuild. Not a single bulb and 90% of the wiring was gone. Since I had to buy everything new I went 12V using high quality parts that I could purchase at most any auto part store.
 
Sure cranks my engine good. An easy switch to 12 volt, uses stock gauges, radio, heater and all accessories via a voltage regulator, not a voltage drop device. Used a stock rebuilt 12 volt generator from O'Reilly and used the end plates from my old generator. I would to this change with no hesitation again. Will be great when I install A/C. Will likely switch to an Alternator then.
 
I have a 6 volt alternator and a optima 6v battery and I do carry spares in my trunk. I dont worry about my charging system.
 
I put a 6v alt on my 32 and halogen bulbs in the headlights. Also have 6v alts on my Model Ts for bright lights.
 
flatheadmurre said:
Same power in a 6v sealed beam as in a 12v....if all wiring is fine no difference.
If you have a voltage drop and bad grounding...and it takes more cause the higher current at 6V...then there might be problems.
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Agreed, but also would note that generators don't put out much at idle so they may look dim. When driving they're as bright as 12V.
 
My coupe would be a prize here for any rodder to steal. What about fitting alarm and tracker systems to my 6V pos earth system?
 
Jembow said:
My coupe would be a prize here for any rodder to steal. What about fitting alarm and tracker systems to my 6V pos earth system?
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An alarm and and tracker doesnt take high current so one of them radio converters will feed them.
A separate hidden battery aint a bad idee for a tracker though.
 
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