Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I am thinking about changing the ground polarity on my '55 Clipper Super from the as made positive to negative, the modern convention. The car is a simple one with no T-L, TU, or any power equipment and accessories except for a radio and electric actuated antenna, and standard heater-defroster. The radio is stock and has not had any solid state components installed.

As I understand it, one simply turns the battery around, reverses the leads on the ignition coil, and re-polarizes the generator.

I would like to do this to be able to dirctly plug-in cell phone and navigation device in the lighter without having to go to get polarity inverters.

Anyone done this? Any words of wisdom on the proposed change?

Thanks.

(o{I}o)

Yes, I did this on my 55 Pat and yes, it is that simple. You MIGHT have a problem with the voltage regulator. If it goes up in smoke with the generator running, just buy a neg ground or either way regulator to replace it. With a Clipper, I'm not sure about the idiot ammeter light. You might have to reverse the leads on it if it acts funny (light on when running).

Craig

Don't forget to switch the plus and minus leads on your coil. The amp light will not be a problem.

Quote:

JW noted that in his original post. That's probably the least important thing to do since a coil will work with either polarity.

Craig

While the coil with work either way to some degree. It works better the correct way, otherwise there would be no need for polarity markers on the terminals.

Idiot light is just a light bulb, and as with all light filament bulbs, they are not polarity sensitive.

Kev, you are correct. There was a recent discussion on coils and their connections. Basically, the lead that goes from the coil to the distributor follows the vehicle's battery ground polarity (e.g. negative ground battery - negative terminal of coil to distributor). It seems to me the pluses outweigh any minuses, so I will change the polarity. The voltage regulator (VR206 Echlin) is marked for either positive or negative ground. I'll let folks here know how this change works.

(o{I}o)

Just a short update to let you know the polarity switch worked just fine. Thanks to all who provided advice and direction. I also installed a Cole-Hersee battery cut-off switch for safety and security.

(o{I}o)

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