54vetteguy

I need some advice on what would be involved for the changeover from a 6 volt to 12 volt system in my 1954. I am looking for feedback on what information I have been able to pull together on this subject from a variety of sources.

ITEMS NOT REQUIRING CHANGING BUT WORK FOR 6 OR 12 VOLT SYSTEMS
Courtesy light switches
Brake light switch
Neutral safety switch (on transmission)
Turn signal switch (in column)
Ignition switch
Dimmer switch
Wiring harness
Temp gauge – mechanical
Oil pressure gauge - mechanical
Amp meter
Starter – 6v ok for short durations
Starter solenoid
Points and condenser

ITEMS REQUIRING CONVERSION OR SPECIFIC 12 VOLT COMPONENTS
Generator conversion
Voltage regulator
Ignition coil
Parking brake flasher (tung sol 642?)
Lamps
Clock conversion
Cigarette lighter
Positive battery cable

I have questions on these items in particular….
1) Gas gauge – my understanding is a drop down resistor must be installed…will it make any difference if a 12 volt sending unit were to be installed in the tank?
2) Horns and Horn Relay - If keeping with the 6 volt horns can also keep the 6 volt relay since horn is only for short bursts and not a continuous current draw. Should a 12 volt relay be installed?
3) Heater Fan and Switch - If changing to a 12 volt fan motor will there also be the need to change the resistor on the fan switch?
4) Light switch – can the 6 volt unit be installed on a 12 volt system
5) Starter relay – did not have this on my car when I purchased it so I need some advice on this relay as it relates to the 6 to 12 volt conversion.

I know there is a lot of information here but a little input from others would be helpful…
Thanks,
John

MaineDoc

I know that you are going to get all kinds of comments about don't convert-stay with 6 volt. Ignore them. I like the 6 volt system in my 54 but you should do what you want. I changed a 51 Chevy to 12 volts and it was pretty easy. In Hemmings there is a little $12.00 booklet about converting to 12 volts that is always for sale. I followed that and it was easy. Your horn will work fine but much louder. My radio was the only thing that I never got right but you can send that off and get it changed over.

Mike Terry

On my first 54 Corvette I changed it from 6 Volt to 12 Volt and it was like day and night. Night being the 6 volt. After changing to 12 volt it was like starting up a jet compared to trying to start a model A. It is the only way to go. Don't forget to not turn on your radio or put in a converter in the line because if not and you turn it on you will blow all the tubes in it and that will not be cheap to repair or replace. Change all your light bulbs to 12 Volt bulbs.

1955 copper

Years ago there was a switch mounted on or near a 12V battery for 6V cars, just to run the starter on 12V while the car electrical system still ran on 6V

Mike Terry

Roy I had heard of that but never seen it. That would be the thing to have.

67vetteal

Join the VCCA and use the search function. Al W.