Ok folks, I have a few questions regarding my '53... I got the car last year and it came with an 8 volt battery in it and I've been running it like that since (I figure, "if it ain't broke don't fix it", right?). Well I 've been driving it about ever other weekend because I've been so busy and half the time I have a hell of a time getting it started. I threw it on the charger (6 volt-2 amp) for a couple of hours and it turned over a few times before it bogged out. Is this just the nature of the beast with the 6 volt system? I can't imagine they were jumping their cars after they sat for a few days back in the 50's. So what do I do? Get a new 8 volt? Get a new 6 volt? I googled this and found conflicting answers- I'd like to get advice from a felloe Ford HAMB'er. Thanks.
Yes, 6-volt cars are a pain in the ****! When the wiring and components were fresh, the 6-volt system was adequate...barely. But with age, volts and amps get lost in the frayed wires and corroded connections and the performance of the electrical system begins to decline. Just my opinion: If you're not in love with originality, rewire the car and convert it to 12-volts at the same time. There are a number of good quality kits available which make the job easy, so you can do it yourself. Believe me, you'll never regret it.
With a 6 volt car, connections are very important. Check and clean all connections, including grounds.. If it has the stock (original) wiring, get either an aftermarket harness or a new stock type harness if the wires show a lot of wear. Make sure that the cables off the battery are the heavy duty type - 12 volt cables will not hack it with 6 volts. O Gauge cables are best. Make sure that your plugs and points are in good shape.
Well, yesterday I went and picked up a new 8 volt- Only about $70 after the $10 mail in rebate- not too bad. She fired right up. The guy at the battery store said an 8 volt charger or battery tender was the only thing that would work for me and that I should have had some sort of mod done to my generator if I was gonna run 8v. I have no idea if that was done by the previous owner or not- don't wanna fry my system. Kinda worried, I am no good with electrical.
After you've done a topic "search", I'd suggest you open this one up to the general membership, Scott...unless you've done so already. The social club readership is somewhat limited, while the 8-volt topic would be of general interest. Doing so would also open you to many more potential 8-volt experts. Just a suggestion. Good luck! Eric
What I have read on the 8-volt in a 6-volt system has been to not do it. Would be interested in what others say though. I run 6-volt systems and yes they can be a pain, but work just fine if everything is correct. As mentioned, good cables and clean grounds. Welding cables can be used or 00 cables. A good charged battery is a must and a good working generator. If you are using your car as a daily and don't care about keeping the original 6 volt system, go 12volt.
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