Re: 6 to 12 volt conversion info on 53 clipper, diagram? parts list? etc.

Posted by BigKev On 2010/10/1 22:59:32

Here is the short list of what you will need:

-12v battery ($65)
-New Starter Solenoid (12v) ($30)
-New Horn Relay (12v) (will also need to adjust the horn pitch) ($15)
-Replace every light bulb ($70)
-New Coil (12v) ($15)
-Ballast Resistor (same as the 55/56 Packards) ($15)
-The gauges will be fine with the stock instrument voltage regulator
-You will need a voltage step down resistor for the clock (see my blog on how to do this) ($5)
-Radio, you will need to convert the radio to 12v, or you will fry it. ($150)
-Fresh Air blower, you will need to get a motor voltage step down resistor, or get the blower motor out of a 55/56. This is what I did. ($20-$50)
-Replace generator with an alternator ($75). Use a 3-wire GM 10SI alternator if you want the GEN light to work on the dash board.
-Fab up a lower alternator bracket. Top generator bracket can be reused with a spacer and a longer bolt. ($10)

Total around $500. All of this is covered in some detail on my car and should be just all you need if the existing 6v harness is in good shape. If you use a 12v aftermarket harness figure about $175 for a decent harness and about another $50-75 in terminals, tape, heat shrink tubing and wire ties.