Hello all, I need a little help. If I am supplying all parts, how much should I expect to pay for labor to convert 6v 1939 Packard to 12v.? Thanks.
Moving target. Labor rate + materials. Depends on how bad the wiring in the car is to start. Is a kit available? Or do all the brackets need to be fabbed?
It was easy to run 6 volt stuff back when the cell connectors on the battery were exposed...We would measure voltage across the cells of a 12 volt battery and tap the 6 volt side and use that for 6 volt accessories like gauges and lights but use the 12 volts to start and have 12 volt generators...Now they are all sealed....
You could Google Cl***ic Car Batteries as I would have thought there is market for this type of battery from the Cl***ic car guys over there.
What is the reason, is the car modified? I've serviced and restored countless Packards and never advised 12V conversion. Shim the pole shoes closer the armature, clean the armature body real good, file the mica down from the commutator bars, it'll spin over like being jump started.
Clean, clean all connections, specially ground connections. New proper size [gauge] cables & what theHIGHLANDER said
Maybe ask why to change to 12v might be in order, not how to keep 6v. Personally I don’t have a working 6v charger anymore, I really don’t want to buy one. Maybe the OP wants a bit of comforts that 12v can provide? Ie sound system, better lighting, maybe road side help for a jump start? The HAMB still modifies vehicles I think.
Mike, you opened a can of worms!! One would think this is AACA instead of the HAMB!! I probably only spent a couple of hours doing my 1950 Buick. It is a SIMPLE chore. Mounting an alternator can be a chore. A 12V generator would be easier if output is enough for you. Chang all the bulbs. Wire is ample size. 12v wire is smaller. Bring it on over. After we are finished, you buy dinner. Done Ben
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