Some really cool builds come from small places. Dan Glover mid-engine gold 57 chevy from Yucaipa California https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...gold-57-chevy-from-yucaipa-california.386823/ Photo from where it was built
That makes sense, thanks for the info. Is upgrading to 12 volt difficult? I imagine the kit makes it pretty easy. Great parts by the way, sounds like a solid build. Thank you!
On the road home to Minnesota from Missouri with my ‘28 chassis! Also picking up some parts in Wisconsin on the way. Didn’t realize this at first but the chassis came with a Tillotson Model X updraft carburetor. On another note, can anyone give me more information about the chassis based on this number?
https://www.fordgarage.com/pages/ABenginenumbers.htm#C1 Check this site. Explains all engine casting numbers. Upgrading to 12V requires new distributor, coil. alternator and changing all bulbs. When you buy the FSI, it comes with a coil so the only other expense is a 70 AMP alternator Which could be inexpensive if you buy an off the shelf unit or expensive if you want a 'looks like an original generator' unit. A dozen bulbs complete the upgrade. You don't have to change the starter, but I put a relay and dash mounted starter button on mine. Good luck Warren
Thanks for the info. That makes sense, I may go the FSI route, would make sense I suppose if I’m doing other performance parts.
Why would you need a new distributor to convert to 12 volt? My 31 roadster pickup runs a single wire GM 12 volt alternator with stock dist and stock coil with a Mopar ballast resistor just fine. My 31 coupe runs a Diamond B engine with a stock B dist with same mods. I have multiple 6 volt cars running 12 volt with stock distributors. Dave
Interesting, I wasn’t aware you could convert a stock distributor. I have been considering a different distributor that has automatic/centrifugal advance, like a Model B distributor or the FS zipper.
The dist doesn't care what the voltage is, just the coil. Ballast resistor, I use mopar type, is all ya need. My 31 coupe is a 99% road car so the B dist made sense in not having to adjust timing but it's not that big of deal. The roadster pickup gets driven on street and back country that you wouldn't believe! Backing the timing all the way off really helps hold it back going down steep hills and kick it up when going fast. 6 volt starter works fine on 12 volt but I strongly recommend a modern starter drive as the stock ones will stick or break. Single wire GM alternator uses stock Model A wiring. change bulbs of course. Reverse wires on ammeter if ya have one and of course negative ground with 12 volt. Easy peasy. Dave
Oh ok, I see, that makes sense. Thanks for clarifying. I definitely like the idea of automatic advance, so that’s the draw of an aftermarket or different model distributor. And a modern starter makes sense for sure. My chassis already has an alternator I believe, it might even be a GM one because I’m still running 6 volts, I’ll have to look at it closer.
Finally got the chassis home late last night, and picked up a new fuel tank and Brumfield head, which I believe it 6.5:1. I’ll post pictures of those later. Gonna try and mock up the body this week.
I made basically no changes to the stock wiring other than flipping polarity on the ammeter. My stock generator was converted to 12v and I have a Model B distributor. Currently running a 6v coil. Everything works fine.
Gotcha, yeah I remember you mentioned the converted generator. I may look for a Model B distributor because automatic advance would be nice.
@51 mercules I love that Banger painted red! I always do my flathead V8's red but have kept my bangers the stock dark green. May have to change to red! Dave
The 81 has been great. Quick throttle response and easy to tune. The FSI is extremely straightforward. I wired my car from scratch and incorporated a sealed 12V battery. It wasn't the cheapest route, but I've been overall happy with the performance and ease of use. There's no perfect formula, but I set mine up with reliability being the most important factor.
Thanks.Even though the former owner painted it red, I really like the red. When I get ready to do my banger with an ohv I'm going to paint it red.
Good to hear. I’m looking at a pair of 81s right now. That’s also good to hear. I’m definitely considering either the 6 or 12 volt FS ignition for the future. Reliability is definitely key.
Red is a great color for bangers for sure. Mine has original paint, not sure if I wanna repaint it or not. I definitely wanna repaint my Brumfield head
A single 81 sounds like a good choice. I just got a dual original Zephyr intake, so I’m gonna run 2 carbs. A guy is selling these two original 81’s and a Burns intake and I’m hoping I can get the 81’s.
Guy I was talking to in Fresno (gas station stop) has a '29 roadster, stripped job. Burns head, Winfield carb, 12 volt. Engine is bright red, sharp! Alternator mounted on right side, alt. is painted satin black, barely noticeable. Just makes sense!
Finally got my ‘31 custom body mocked up on the frame, and man does it look good! Also test-fit the pickup bed; it will need some modification for it to sit right on the frame, but it doesn’t look half bad. The placement of the body on the frame is perfect for reaching the pedals, but the seat I made needs to be a little higher, and the shifter will need to be bent to clear the dash.
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