Hey all - I'm looking for some info on converting my 6V to a 12. Seems like this would be a fairly big deal. Can I keep the stock guages with minor changes? I'm electrically challenged so any helpfull advice would be really appreciated. Thanks! Gary
By the way, there are a lot of posts on conversions. I was really wondering about early Buick experiences. Thanks again! Gary
Haven't done a GM but have done several Fomoco projects. All light bulbs have to be changed, as well as the battery and you will probably need a voltage dropping device to supply power to the instruments. On all the old Fords & Mercs Ive done I havent had to change the starter but did change the solenoid. I'd suggest you go with a 1-wire alternator as this hook-up is fairly simple. Hardest part is the wiring under the dash and this depends a lot on the condition of the insulation on the old wiring. Usually gets brittle and doesn't like much twisting and bending. I'd suggest you find a print or schematic of the original wiring in the Buick before you even think about doing the conversion. This drwaing should show original colors on the insulation as to what is what.
Do some research, I remember seeing a battery in a car mag that was 12v but had posts to draw 6v as well! 12v gen or alt to charge and all lighting 12v but pulling a harness from the center 6v post for the instruments. Duane
Man I would go with the easiest set up you can find. I mean get a book or what ever and do it right but dont be like me and rip every wire out and install a new harness. My 6 to 12 conversion has turned into a big ordeal. Get a voltage drop deal for the guages and change the bulbs, generator and stuff and run it. Hell I even have a 12 generator Ill send you.
Thanks for the details. I was afraid it could be a big deal without a lot of research and help from those who have already made the mistakes. Thanks! Gary
I haven't done it (yet), but I've done some initial research. Night Prowlers has a booklet about it for $10 Here's the link I've been thinking about running a 6v "trunk" off the 12v main to power the original dash accesories. I've dabbled in electronics before and I think it can be done with some cheap Radio Shack bits. I've seen a couple mentions about resistors being placed inline to the 6v accessories. Do not try to use resistors to step down voltage! Resistors step down current (amperage). Diodes and voltage regulators are used to step down voltage. I thought about doing a Tech on it when I get around to doing mine this summer. Good luck!
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