Tech Q, Using 12V alternator on 6V ?

I read something about an outfit that modifies (expensive) small 12V alternators to run on 6V and still provide the same current output of around 45A.

This gets me to wondering if a big 100A + unit cant provide about 50A on 6V without mods??
Any built in regulators would need to be bypassed and an external unit designed and built Im guessing.

Anyone have some creative thoughts?

 

Beats me, but why would you want that anyway?

 

i think Hot Rod and Custom supply sell a 6v alternator

 

How about starting with a sixties vintage GM with the original relay type external regulator and seeing how far that regulator can be tweaked?

 

Bruce, that was what the article I read started with. Apparently it works but will only put out around 1/2 the current without a custom armature (I believe thats what he did).

Since 40-50A is more than enough for most 6V use I got this half assed idea about using a big un and see if it will work at half power. These days 100+Amp alternators are more common in bone yards than the old 45A.

Dont think a 60's regulator will even pull in much less tweaked.

 

286-give this guy a call- Joe at Buckeye Rebuilders 440-354-2060. He's in Painsville Ohio but ships all over.He's a cool guy and does all of Gas Light's and Snyder's electrical rebuilds.He knows the old stuff.Plus he has a poster of a pettle car junk yard on his wall ! It's like an old time rebuilding shop and he does all the work right in front of you.

 

A lot of the Model A'ers use 6 volt alternators. Synders has them, 35 and 60 amp. Only thing is that their negative ground.

 

A lot of the Model A'ers use 6 volt alternators. Synders has them, 35 and 60 amp. Only thing is that their negative ground.

I know about them, Fifth Ave Antique Auto Parts builds them for Snyders and they wrote the article I referred to.

My question still remains: How about a Do It Yourself conversion?
And can a high output 12V alternator supply enough amperage at 6V to work at idle?

I suppose I can rig up an electric motor with variable speed driving an alternator and find out for myself but didnt want to reinvent the wheel.

 

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This gets me to wondering if a big 100A + unit cant provide about 50A on 6V without mods?

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I think that this is a great question. I wish I had the electric knowledge to answer it. I'm curious for an answer, so back to the top.