"Special" items when converting to 12 volt?

Posted by JimGnitecki On 2008/8/22 20:21:05

I asked before, but got not quite ALL the answers I think:

When I convert from 6 volt positive ground with generator to 12 volt negative ground with alternator on my 1952 200 Deluxe, I know:

- Obviously all bulbs need to go to 12 volt

- Need a 12 volt coil, and a ballast resistor, and hook the coil up with the negative side connected to the distributor

- Distributor itself is untouched

- I need to use a Runtz resistor to protect each instrument guage (fuel, temperature, clock)and the radio

- I can apply 12 volts to the 6 volt starter and it will live, but probably have a shorter life as a result

- 12 volt horn relay (is this really necessary for rare and short duration use?)

- I can apply 12 volts to the 6 volt horns, and they will live for at least a while, and then I can replace them :)

- The voltage reguator goes away along with the generator, since I have the alternator


But, what about:

- The starter motor solenoid

- The Borg Warner OD relay

- The Borg Warner OD solenoid

- Does the change in both voltage and polarity necessitate any changes to the "battery" light circuit?

- Does the change in both voltage and pol;arity necessitate any changes to the "oil pressure" light circuit?

- For safety, swap out the 6 volt cigar lighter to a 12 volt (so a guest or child does not accdientally start a fire when I am not looking)

- Anything else I haven't thought of?

I really don't want to convert, BUT:

1. My wiring needs replacmeent anyway (old & brittle)

2. A generator and voltage regulator that needs adjustment from time to time seem like a rather unreliable setup for long term torublefree motoring

3. I MUST add air conditioning - we get 100 degree highs all summer - well over 45 days over 100 so far this season, and this is my daily driver

Jim G