Posted this on the Barn but I thought I'd ask over here as well. I couldn't find anything in the archives but maybe I didn't word the question correctly. That said, Getting ready to completely rewire my '54 Ranch Wagon and convert it to 12 volts. I've read conflicting opinions on using the stock '54 6 volt headlight switch vs. using a 12 volt one from a '56/57. From what I can tell the 12 volt switch will accept the knob ***embly from the '54 switch and the 12 volt unit will install with no mods where the 6 volt switch was. C&G said the '54 switch should work fine but I'm a little concerned about how the dash light dimmer rheostat in the 6 volt switch will work with 12 volts. Am I worrying about nothing or should I go with the 12 volt switch?
Just to reinforce what Steve said: Clarence (see avatar) was converted to 12V in 1991. I used the original 1948 headlight switch until 2017, when I replaced it. The old one failed, but not because of voltage or amperage; it was just worn out. The switch was 69 years old and had about a gazillion on/off cycles on it.
The other thing that should be mentioned is the current aftermarket/replacement headlight switches generally aren't as well made as the OEM ones, so if yours is OEM and still working well it'll probably be better quality.
I have to agree with the above. I remember doing at least 3, 6 - 12 V conversions using the Ford 6 volt switches and having no problems. As Steve has said, there is less current with 12 volts so a 6 volt switch will handle the load quite well.
Add the relays it will take some of the load off the switch and you will have brighter headlights.(worked good on my '54) Read this it shows you how to wire them up too. http://watsons-streetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/a-current-topic.pdf
When we rewired our '54 Ranch Wagon I just replaced the headlight switch with a new one, the original knob worked fine. I did relocate the placement but the principle is the same.HRP
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