I am converting to 12 volt in my '53 Chieftain. The old starter is done with and I need to replace it. Finding a suitable replacement has become a never ending task. Does anyone know what would work? It is is a straight 8 engine.
I would rebuild yours or get another of the same. 12 volts shouldn't bother it if you don't grind on it
I started to rebuild it but the commuter end was worn flat with no ridges, and the contacts were melted. Not sure what happened before I had her but they fried the electrical system. Previous owner had spliced 12 to the 6 wiring. I will continue to try to find a replacement. Thank you for your reply.
The parts people ****! Is there an aftermarket starter that would be suitable? E-bay starter was gone by the time I got there.
Try to locate a starter/alternator shop in your area. Not a parts store that resells other peoples rebuilt starters. My 55 Stude starter is just as hard to find as yours. An auto electric rebuilding shop rebuilt mine and was able to find 12V field windings to fit my 6V housing. You don't have to replace the fields but it wasn't that much more so I went for it. If all you can find is a stock 6V unit, it will work just fine. When you find the right place it won't be modern and well lit. It will have worn counters with piles of cores and rebuilds ready to be picked up. They will probably have rows of catalogs and few if any computers. It will be located in an industrial center and not a strip mall along with ladies fashions. You may want to ask around at truck stops and equipment people. They don't shop at parts stores.
rebuild yours, mine has the original in it and it has been doing great. i converted it to 12v last year.
Call phil at southeastern starter 912-367-4370 baxley , ga he rebuilds starters and alt. 2nd generation rebuilder. Tell them ems auto sent you.
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