convert or not to convert from 6V to 12V ?

[speedracing944]

I have a '47 8N which I use for snow removal and lawn/pasture cutting. I just trouble shot my charging system and determined the generator is shot. The tractor is still running the old 6V system. I noticed a new generator is $120 where as a 12V conversion system not including the battery and lights is $145. Other than the generator the current system on the tractor works quite well and starts even if it is 0 degrees outside. I even just bought 6V headlights.

My question is considering the current 6V system is in good shape should I still convert to 12V? I am guessing with the cost of a battery and lights it would push the conversiion price to about $220 or so verses just paying the $120 for the generator.

What do you guys think?

Speedy

 

[sandman2234]

I would think the 12v would be a better way to go, but I have never done one. The principle things you need to consider are if the 6v starter will run on 12v without burning it up, or if that needs to be changed out also. The lights are a small part of the problem I would think.
David from jax

 

[speedracing944]

Good point on the starter. I didn't think of that. Add another $140 to the conversion price. Hmmm keeping the 8N at 6V is looking better...


Speedy

 

[bx23barry]

It is pretty easy to wire up a delco alternator, replace the battery and blubs to end up wit a 12v system. The 6v starter will be fine with 12 v. The only problem would be any electral gauges you might have but JC Whitney used to sell a resistor for them (might get away with a coil ballast). It will start and charge way better on 12v. But if you are happy with the 6v system there is no reason to change.

 

[lhfarm]

Good point on the starter. I didn't think of that. Add another $140 to the conversion price. Hmmm keeping the 8N at 6V is looking better...


Speedy

I did the conversion (maybe 15 years ago) when I was running an 8n. It made a world of difference. I didn't change the starter and never had a problem. It will work fine. Don't crank it forever, but with a 12V system starting is quick!

 

[speedracing944]

Not to change the subject but I saw the picture of your farm Jeep and clicked on your farmjeep.com link. How cool. I never knew there was such a thing. Sounds like a perfect vehicle.

Speedy

 

[8NLUGNUT]

I've done three conversions this year on 8n's. The starter works 6 or 12volts.

Once you get the hood off, if you bought a kit it's pretty easy and fast.

While you're at it replace the points, condenser, plugs, wires, rotor cap and distributer cap and flush the radiator.

Those are cheap parts and will really make a difference in starting and running.

When you crank it back up you'll grin ear to ear!

 

[8NLUGNUT]

I should add that if your handy, you can make your own altenator brackets and save a lot of money buy going to the auto parts store for a single post Delco altenator and a dated 12volt battery.

Every parts store has batteries that have sat on the shelf past their inhouse limits. They will sell them to you cheap if you know to ask for them.

I got my last two for $10 each. You can use your old generator and battery for the core charges.

You can buy your wire and connectors there also but don't forget the thingamagiggy from Radio Shack. If you don't put it in the altenator wire the tractor won't turn off!

 

[KYErik]

The 6 volt starter on my 1943 Case has been cranking with a 12 volt battery for 30 years with no problems.

Unless you have a positive ground ystem, just stick a 12 volt battery in and a 12 volt ignition coil and a Delco 1 wire alternator and you should be good to go. Most of the older tractors had mechanical oil pressure and coolant temp gauges so that might not even be an issue for you.

 

[speedracing944]

I still have the postive ground system. would something have to change with the starter to go with the negative ground?

my oil pressure gage is mechanical so no change needed there.

If I do the 12V conversion it would pave the way for fuel injection and EDIS ignition.

Speedy