I have done a search, but haven't really found the answers I'm looking for. So here's my story, followed by a few questions... I recently purchased a 1949 Fleetline. The guy I bought it from completely ripped out all the wiring. It now has a 12V battery in it and an alternator. There is no wire coming from the alternator. If I push the starter, it starts up. However in order to turn it off, I have to take the positive lead off the battery. Now the questions; it was originally a 6V system...can I purchase a 12V harness to fit everything? Or should I purchase a 6V wiring kit and use the reducers I've been reading about? Will 6V wiring handle 12V current? I am completely lost. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks, Squirt
yes ,the wires used in a car with six volts will handle the 12 volts just fine..if they are in good shape but since you say you have no wiring at all , get a wiring kit from a good maker....several of them are on here....then follow their instructions. i have never used their kits , but a lot of guys on here talk highly of Rebel Wire. talk with them to see what they recommend . i would think for a basic car a 12 fuse panel would be fine you mentioned reducers...i assume that you mean those 12 volt to 6 volt voltage drops for your gauges. yes , put those runtz voltage drops on each gauge if you plan on keeping your original 6 volts gauges with your new 12 volt system. stuff like radios , heater fans , etc draw more amps than the runtz voltage drops can handle so you will need something else for them
here's what you need for a 54, I think yours should be the same. http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/miscellaneous/5412volt.htm
I just rewired my '49 a few weeks ago.I used a kit from american auto wire and I mounted the fuse block on the inside of the removable panel on the firewall.The starter will work great on 12 v .I like the way the car starts now and I would do it again! PAUL
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