Hello everybody, I'd like to convert my 1954 Chevy Bel air from 6 to 12V. I found a starter at Speedway Motors, made by Tuff Stuff Performance, but they unsure if it can fit my car. Please, any idea ? Thanks so much ! Here is the link: https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Tuff...arter-Full-Size-Black-3-Bolt-Nose,409728.html
There is no need to change the original starter. It will be fine on 12 volts. My 235 and many others here, have been using the original 6 volt starter for years with no problems.
Just don't keep cranking for more than a few seconds (you won't have to if your engine is running right). You can still cook a 6V starter on 12V, only if you crank for an excessive time.
On a few cars, we used a '55-'56 solenoid on the 6v starter to slow drive engagement into the ring gear. These were cars that ate a ring gear for some reason. We suspected the driver(s) must have hit the ****on with engine running. The 12v solenoid made them feel better ...
They have to have your rebuildable core or pay a stiff core charge but the Filling Station in Oregon does sell rebuilt to 12 volt starters. https://store.fillingstation.com/detail/R-3500-12/Chevrolet_193854_REBUILT_STARTER_12_VOLT.html 54 used a 139 tooth ring gear. 55 and up 235 cars used a 168 tooth ring gear plus the bolt pattern for trans to bellhousing changed to the "Muncie" pattern in 55 so swapping flywheels and bellhousings and keeping the trans and rear isn't going to work.
Absolutely use the old one. The old 6V is wound much better than the 12V and will stand a higher load, plus the thing will spin the engine almost twice as fast resulting in shorter start times. I did one on a 235 that lasted for years, perfect when I sold the truck.
Thanks everybody for the advices. I am goin' to keep my old 6V starter. Thanks once again and greetings from ol' Italy !
Chio Cuggi ! Per favore , posta qualche photo della tua macchina Grazie bello agure ! Chi piacciono le photo delle v*****e auto !!
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