Getting a jump

Posted by Mark Buckley On 2011/9/16 0:15:12

Just a quick question I can't find an answer to: did I damage my 6-volt system by getting a jump from a 12-volt battery?

Tonight the three-year-old battery on my 1950 Standard Eight failed. The car was in a flat place when the battery died, so doing a rolling start by popping the clutch was out of the question.

A good Samaritan stopped by with a modern Ford truck and jumper cables. I made sure none of my electrical accessories (such as the radio or heater fan) were turned on. Then I connected his 12-volt battery to my 6-volt unit and asked him NOT to turn on his engine. I hit the Packard's starter button and she fired up instantly. We disconnected the jumper cables quickly. I thanked him and drove away. The Packard seemed none the worse for wear and I have already ordered a replacement battery.

I'm curious as to what the proper procedure is, when getting a jump from a 12-volt system. Any comments or ideas? Do I need to check my voltage regulator or any other electrical component? Thanks in advance for any comments.

All the best,

Mark