so after trying very hard to avoid it there is no way i can anymore. i need to convert from 6 to 12 volt. i found everything from a place called the filling station with the exception of an alternator, they are sold out but they offer one on back order for about $120.00. this seems a bit high to me plus, i don't want to wait! can anyone suggest a alternator that i may be able to get from my local parts store that would do the job? thanks
I ***ume your car is "Off Topic" as it isn't mentioned. But if it is an early Generator 6V all you need to do is change the regulator to 12V regulator and polarize the generator to match the regulator.
You can't charge a 12 volt system with a 6 volt generator unless you can change the field coils to ones from a 12 volt generator. Also, I'm thinking that $120 for an alternator isn't out of line.
Just go online and check the parts stores . Easy peasy. Figure out everything you need power for and get the appropriate amp alternator.
These days if you walk into a parts house without a year/make/model that can be entered into their computer, you won't have much luck. I'd suggest finding your local alternator/starter shop and explain what you need to them, including pulley type/width. Tell them you'd like a three-wire unit. If they're worth their salt they'll be able to fix you up with a rebuilt unit, and probably for a much better price. You'll likely have to fabricate any mounting bits yourself.
Yes you can! The generator doesn't care. You just need to change the regulator If you want a larger output ? [yes maybe change the fields then] These people swapping the fields have been tipping $$$ down the drain on this "mysterious black art"
Yes it you're right it can be done but you will eventually burn up the field coils. If you don't drive the car much and if you have very low power requirements it will last longer. Who knows when you'll cook it but you will. 12 volt field coils for the stuff I drive aren't expensive so I'd change them and never give it a second thought. Way cheaper than a tow bill that's for sure.
Maybe I'm missing something but it sounds like you just need a single wire GM alternator. Any decent parts house should be able to fix you up no problem. Here is a link to the local alternator shop I used for the single wire GM alternator for the flathead in my '39 p/u. I also used them for the Ford single wire alternator for the 302/AOD combo that is going in my '54 Ranch Wagon. https://www.qualitypowerauto.com/catalog.php?item=8
Yes, a one wire alternator is the way to go. Keep it simple. I did this in my '54 3100. Kept the old regulator in place to make it look original, and just ran the alternator wire up to the "Bat" terminal on the regulator. Taped up the two old wires down at the generator, being careful that they were separated. This way if anyone wants to go back to a generator set-up they can at any time. One wire alternators are on Ebay, Summit, Autozone, etc.
I know that the easy way out is the one wire deal, but why not use the alternator like it was designed to be used, with the sense lead and an indicator light? It's only a couple more wires, and the village idiot (at least where I live) can wire it correctly. Hide the indicator light under the dash if you're ashamed to have it visible. I always tell the parts guy I need one for a 1973 Nova, 350 with AC. Comes with a narrow belt pulley, and if you need to re-clock the mounting pattern all you have to do is remove four screws and turn the front half of the alternator case to where you need it.
Did this on mine 7 years and 20,000 miles back. I use a volt meter. Alternator was , then, about $55 at O'Reilly's. 85 amp believe. Ben
You are right, Ben. This was my daily driver for over 10yrs, and I put at least 70k miles with no issues on it. Bob And, at least here in Denver, Autozone has free lifetime replacement on most of their alternators, or at least they used to. I save the receipt and box, and when it fails, simply get a new one.
The Jalopy Journal
