So I've replaced the genny in my 53 merc flathead about 5 times since I've had it and this put me in the mood to convert to 12 volt. But I think I may be changing my mind slowly but surely on the conversion. The question is does anyone know where I could pick up a 6 volt alternator that looks like a generator? The powergen's come to mind but I'm pretty sure they are strictly 12v. Thanks Jack
I've had the car for 6 years. And had to replace the generator for a whole host of different reasons. First time the armature needed replaced. I had it rebuilt and the rebuilder painted my case and got paint on the brushes. So that was the second replacement. The third time the Mallory dual point did something I couldn't really understand (I'm not an electrician by any means) and fried the battery and the generator so I had to have it replaced again. Then this last time was the bearings going bad and it wasn't spinning. So I guess I've only worked it over 4 times not 5. I just bought a new battery and the whole set up seems to be running like a top now but I've got this feeling it's only gonna run great for a little longer before something else ****s out.
Was your generator replaced with another one or did you 4 times rebuild the same one? A lost cause for sure. I'd find another generator and have it done right...turned and tested armature or new one, new field coils, new brushes, new bearings/bushings.
JACK...theres a good reason folk's change over to 12 volts. it's time my brother, you won't regret it!...POP.
Going to 12 volt would be a good move either with a generator or alternator. The problems that you have stated could have also happen with a alternator too. Rebuilds are only as good as the rebuilder and it sounds like you do not have a good one.
12v conversion isn't hard at all.. just need to change all the bulbs out and put a voltage reducer for the gauges. most 6v starters will work on 12v
I believe PowerGen makes 6v and 12v alternators. Another option is Ed Whitney in Buena Park, CA, (714-773-1611); he converts Ford generators to alternators to retain the original look. I've had one of his 6v conversions in my flathead for 5 years, and it works great. Whitney's alternators put out about 40 amps, while the PowerGen is good for 60-75.
I had a 6 volt alternator on my 54 Chevy. It wasn't made to look like a generator though. There was absolutely no reason to switch the car over to 12 volt other than I couldn't directly run a modern stereo (which I didn't care about) and I'd run the brights on at night. (nobody noticed). I understand wanting to keep the looks of a generator but unless you want a modern car, 6 volts work just fine in a proper set up.
Macs antiques Auto has 6 volt altenators with + or - grounds. You select what you want it to be to match your application.I would opt for the 12 volt conversion for the long haul.
do an 8 volt conversion jack up the regulater an get 8 volt battery dont have to change gauges an it will start like a 12 volt would
Emailed you 1 rather long wordy solution, here is another from the HAMB Tech Archives http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=29715&highlight=conversion
Easier start ups especially in the winter is a pretty good reason for 12 volt for me... I'm not sure if you're against switching to 12 volt, but i that's how i understand your post...what is your reasoning for staying with 6 volt? to the guy that made this post...If I were you I would get the stock generator converted to 12V. I believe there is a small oil fill thing on your generator...did you maintain your previous generator?
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