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In this Discussion
- 37 Terraplane#2 June 2008
- certjeff June 2008
- Twitch June 2008
1954 Bel Air 6V to 12V conversion
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Hi, a few years ago I purchased a 1954 Chevy Bel Air as a project car. I'm trying to finish what the previous owner started and change the original 6V system to a 12V system. However, I am very new at things like this but am very interested in doing the work myself. I just need to know everything that must be changed over to ensure a working electrical system. Any and all help would be appreciated. Thanks.
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2 wire alternator with built in regulater , should come with instructions { the one wire sounds simple but more to it we won't go into, just get a 2 wire} Resistor between the ign switch and + on coil if useing the orig 6v coil , [Can mount on coil mount screw } resistors on your dash gauges and of course all light bulbs.
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Did the previous ovner begin conversion? If so you have to go that way. But if your 6v system is in decent shape with CLEAN connections there is no benefit over 12v unless you will use the cars as a daily driver or just have to have that 12v boombox system.
I have a 6v battery that puts out 865 CCA- enough for even when you don't keep up via generator charge if you do 25 starts in a day.
As Terraplane said, you'll have to change all the things mentioned. You really don't have to decide until after you get it running again whether you want to change to 12v. Do the hard stuff 1st. -
I agree with Twitch on this. My old 37 model is on 6 volt and operates well . In my younger days I worked in northern Minn. iron mines . COLD? YOU BET! Cars hard to start ? Some were, but mine never was, just keep 6 volt in shape and it works fine . I should have added to my comments that sometimes you create more problems than you solve changeing over to 12 volt . Bud
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Depending how far along you are here is my 2 cents. There are companies that make a single reducer for the entire dash costs around $80.00. No need to replace each bulb or add reducer for each gauge. Cost is the same just more work. Your starter motor can stay 6v, but you have to change the solenoid. With the alternator 1-wire or 3-wire depends on your dash( ammeter, voltmeter use a 1-wire warning light use a 3-wire). If you still have your generator and regulator on the car wiring a 1- wire is very simple. At the regulator remove and tape the field wire. The other 2 wires combine them together either by using a butt connector or using one of the terminals as a junction point. At the generator the terminal marked "A" will go to the battery post on the alternator. This will ensure either ammeter or voltmeter will still work. Remove and tape the fiield and ground wires. For a warning light you will need a 3-wire. I can go intop detail on wiring that if needed. It is easy. All you need now is headlight, tailights and ignition coil.
