Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Hi, Has anyone have info on changing a 1939 Super 8 to 12 volts? What parts do I need and where can I get them?

Attach file:

---

  (27.89 KB)

Welcome look in post war forums for a special item when converting to 12 volts.Also add your car to the owner registry when you get a chance.

Just curious, why ruin the authenticity of a perfectly fine bona-fide Full Classic by converting to 12 volts? Other than a wife who refuses to ride in a non-AC car, there really isn't a good reason in my view.

Welcome aboard 39limo. See you have added your limo to the Owner Registry, thanks for that.
and

As said above why go to 12 volts. Looks like you will have enough to do in regular restoration. So it cranks a bit slow when starting. Only problem with 6 volt is if the car has been sitting awhile, it is better to have an electric fuel pump or just before cold starting put a bit of gasoline into the carburetor. Once warmed up will start fine. I use 6 volt Optima batteries and have an old tungar charger if needed to keep them charged. For a modern hidden radio you can get a converter. It actually sounds and looks great as the 6 volt system slowly cranks a large 8 or 12 cylinder up to speed to start, kind of like an old prop airplane.

everybody has there reasons. six volt systems sound cool, and are nice for being authentic, but if you want to add accessories or what not, six volt can be a hinderance.

you will need an alternator, a 12v coil, all new bulbs, and either new guages or a resistor to knock it back down. since a 12v conversion also means switching from pos+ ground to neg- ground, youll need to switch some polarities and stuff.

im not completely familiar with all the necissary steps, and im sure ive missed something, but that is the general idea.

That is a very fine car you have there. I have a 1703 touring sedan (have been working on it this weekend). I have not met many fellow 39 Super 8 owners.

How long have you had the car? What are your plans for the car? Is it presently drivable?

As for the conversion from 6 to 12 volts, some individuals have given excellent advice already. There are some particular challenges with this proposition. One challenge is the non sealed flexbeam headlamp assemblies. You would have to adapt 12v bulbs somehow. The next concern I would personally have is overpowering the starter. This starter utilizes a single bolt retaining system and a fairly fragile centrifugal starter Bendex. You also have the heater blower motor and defroster (if equipped) blower motor to contend with.

With proper equipment such as appropriate gauge battery cables, a good wiring harness with clean connections, and in my opinion, an Optima battery you should (and I currently) have no troubles at all.

There is my two cents. I hope to hear more about your car.

Best of luck,
Jim

39super8

i just couldnt remember the rest

Quote:

Keep watching my Speedster project blog for more on this, as I'm doing exactly that to my 1925 headlights, using modern halogen bulbs.

Quote:


I have to agree. Except for adding A/C to the car there is little reason to convert. Drive my 51 everyday on 6 volts without problem.