Let's discuss Packard 6V electrical systems and the change to 12V systems

Posted by Peter Packard On 2008/6/20 0:45:28

G'day all, This should be an interesting topic as I'm sure that many of us are not quite sure why US auto manufacturers settled on 6V electrical systems and why they changed to 12 V systems. I have read a number of articles in the SAE Journal over the years. Owen-Dyneto and others are sure to have some interesting facts to baffle us with. For kick -off, Battery freezing- I understand that the high current draw on a 6V starting system will not allow the battery to lower it's specific gravity to the same extent as a 12 volt battery cranking system. The result is that there is less chance of freezing a 6V battery in service than a 12 volt battery. Is this true? Best regards Peter Toet