Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

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

HI CB,
I have had this happen various times with cars Iv'e had with 6 volt systems but only once on my 34 super 8. I dont think you blew your battery for the short time you connected to 12 volt. It acted rather like a fast charge but would not be recommended long term.
If this should happen again connect the jump leads direct to the starter motor terminal and the other to ground. This by passes the battery and will get you going. The starter motor windings for 6 volt are man enough to take 12 volt. I once changed my ford v8 Pilot over to 12 volt and left the starter motor in place as 6 volt for years with no problems.
Hope this helps

Regards

Terry

I think the worst that you might see damaged in that short a time is a dome or courtesy light bulb if you opened the door while 12v was connected. Was that one of the repro "boutique" batteries that failed after 3 years?

I think you did exactly correct connecting the jumper cables to the battery-the dead battery acts as a resistor and helps protect the starter etc. I agree-get the 12 volts off the system as fast as possible. Charging systems run at a higher voltage than the battery voltage. I have measured 8v with the engine running on my 47 Packard.

I think you did exactly correct connecting the jumper cables to the battery-the dead battery acts as a resistor and helps protect the starter etc. I agree-get the 12 volts off the system as fast as possible. Charging systems run at a higher voltage than the battery voltage. I have measured 8v with the engine running on my 47 Packard.

I think you did exactly correct connecting the jumper cables to the battery-the dead battery acts as a resistor and helps protect the starter etc. I agree-get the 12 volts off the system as fast as possible. Charging systems run at a higher voltage than the battery voltage. I have measured 8v with the engine running on my 47 Packard.

I agre wit hPackard49. Jump to the battery. It acts as a resistor or a kind of 'overflow tank" in a way for extra voltage.

Btw if that battery is 3 years or older u most likely need a new battery.

I agree. Very little chance any damage was done. I've done it before when I've been in a pickle and never had an issue. Sounds like you did it the best way you could.

Hi, Howard,

The battery was not a fancy repro model. It was an Interstate that 01-1972 that I bought at a NAPA store. In my experience using the Packard as a daily driver I get about three years out of a battery.

Thanks for your interest,

Mark

The starter motor windings for 6 volt are man enough to take 12 volt.

Maybe on a Packard.

When I had my 41 Chevy we got in the habit of doing that, but quit after the third starter rewind.