I am attempting to convert my chevy deluxe from a 6 volt to a 12 volt. I have researched and found different opinons. I found a kit online for rewire thats 250 dollars, my wires are old and could use replacement. My real question is how far do i need to go, with regard to parts. do i need new starter, solenoid, igintion coil? If someone could point me in the direction of a great walk through or give any help it would be great thanks.
If you do a search, you'll find a lot of good info on conversions. But to answer a couple of your questions- yes, you have to have a new coil, No, you don't need a new starter or solenoid, the engine will just spin faster. The 6V starter/sol in my '51 is spinning quite nicely with 12V And check into Rebel Wire harnesses. VERY nice kit for less than 200 bucks.
You'll find a good conversion article here(scroll down a bit): http://www.patricksantiquecars.com/articles.html It's definetly easier than it sounds. For sure you need a 12V coil and bulbs. Reducers can be used for the gas gauge and blower motor but now knowing better I would have bought a 12V blower motor over the large resistor under the dash that gets hot and must not touch anything. Good luck.
It's actually really easy! We ended up doing it to our 49 Fleetline which arrived in the UK with the previous owner having put a 12v battery on the 6 volt system! A selection of bulbs, new good quality ignition coil and a step down for the gas gauge ( as suggested above get a new 12v blower motor if you can.) and it'll take you no time to do, just be methodical and make sure that you account for anything that will get fried witth 12 volts running through it! Starter motor will be fine, with the faster spinning ours starts on the ****on every time. As for crusty old wiring it's always a a fire risk and you'd be surprised how easy a rewire is with some patience and a good wiring diagram!
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