convert 36 ford to 12 v

[gordon hancock]

Hi rheItzel. Thanks for your input. It looks like an Optima is the best option, I have a body shop so we should be able to fabricate the required battery holder. I was worried if I lowered the battery holder it might cause a clearance problem on the road. Any issues with clearance? My 36 is a 3 window coupe , what 36 do you have? Many thanks to all the others for there input. This is a great resource and I am sure I will be using it again as I proceed with getting my coupe on the road.

 

[gordon hancock]

Hi Capsacto. I believe the 37 has the battery mounted on the firewall. Probably because having the battery under the drivers seat was an issue in 36 so ford changed it in 37.

 

[rheltzel]

Hi, Gordon. You only have to drop the bottom about an inch, which still leaves plenty of clearance. My '35 is a 5-window. You can see it on my profile.

 

[JSeery]

I was worried if I lowered the battery holder it might cause a clearance problem on the road. Any issues with clearance?

Another approach to this is the used the raised cover over the battery compartment. You can fab your own or they are (or were at least) for sell.

 

[Capsacto]

Hi Gordon. You're right, the '37 has the battery on the firewall...I'm still learning.

Thanks

 

[gordon hancock]

Jseery has a simple solution to the problem, install a raised battery cover then I can used most any available 6v battery . Don Rogers, 36 ford adviser with the early ford v8 club gave me contact information for someone who is making these covers. As soon as I am able to purchase one I will post the information.

 

[G.M.]

I live on Long Island New York.

Look on Ebay they are less money on there. Stick with 6 volts
and the Optima. Here's a few pictures of some optima's. Some
I moved up on the right side of the engine because batteries get
neglected under the floor. G.M.

 

[JM 35 Sedan]

There are two companies in Ohio making conventional 6V lead acid batteries that are the right height for your stock '36 battery box/tray, but I would no waste my time or money buying one of those. They are over priced and do not last more than a year or two at the most. You really do not need to go with 8V or 12V to have a reliable driver.

I am sold on the 6V Optima Red Top batteries. Have bought three from Amazon. Com at lowest price available, with free shipping. I have made a very simple battery mount for the Optima that clamps into the original battery box, and requires no modifications to install.