Re: 6 volt to 12 volt

Posted by Ted on April 26, 1998 at 23:05:46

In Reply to: 6 volt to 12 volt
posted by Jim R on April 26, 1998 at 02:07:05

Jim,I run 12 volts on my 28 roadster.It's a modified car with B engine,Miller OHV,32 trans,Zephyr gears,Columbia,Pertronix ignition,hudraulic brakes.12 volts allow me to use a standard GM alternator,halogen lites,CB and electronic ignition.Pertronix has since come out with a 6 volt +ve ground ignition.12 volt batteries are cheaper and more reliable.In my case because I have the 32 tranny and wanted to mount the master cylinder beside the tranny,I fabricated a new battery box to fit a narrow battery in the proper position.I did not convert the starter to 12V and it has not failed me in 6 years of use.Also ran a 6 volt starter on 12 volts in a 49 Dodge for years without any trouble.There is info on the web somewhere on rewinding the armarture of the horn for 12 volts.
If your car is very original 12 volts is not necessary.In fact I am restoring a 49 Cadillac that I am keeping on 6 volts to remain authentic.With 6 volts it is very important to use the proper gauge battery cables,my Caddy would not turn over with 12 volt battery cables,but works well with proper 00 gauge cables.Modern autoparts stores only stock smaller gauge 12 volt cables.Hope this helps.Ted

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