Blitz to 12 volt

[Lang]

Steve,

I put up some stuff on this subject some time ago but can't remember the thread.

Changing to 12 volt has many advantages such as readily and cheaply available electrical parts.

12 volt creates a briskly starting engine without the worry of a slow cranking 6 volt system.

You can get a jump start from every car if required.

Nice bright headlights.

You can charge and use your mobile phone, GPS, Ipod etc

I have done many conversions including my 1945 Chevrolet Utility I am putting on the ship next week to drive from Istanbul to Normandy. It has the 216 engine the same as your CMP.

The original starter motor is fine and I have had Chevrolets converted to 12 volt that have done thousands of trouble-free starts. If it is working now there is no need to overhaul it in any way.

There is no need to change the generator to a 12 volt generator or alternator. The original generator puts out 30+ volts unregulated. All you need do is replace the voltage regulator with a 12 volt one (I used a 60's Holden Delco but ANY brand 12 volt regulator will do). If you have the original adjustable regulator this can be tweeked up to 12 volts without changing anything but can be unreliable if it is getting old and worn - $10 for a regulator from the wreckers is cheaper than $70 an hour for an auto electrician!

As you say the coil and condensor need to be replaced with a 12 volt version (make sure you get internal resistor coil). Any 12 volt condensor that will fit in the distributor will do - take your old one and compare screw holes and wire length to pick a good fit.

Lights need replacing - take the opportunity to fit sealed beams or QH globe type for modern lighting performance. You can just get 12 volt globes to stick in the old, and probably dull reflector, headlights. All the other light globes need replacing.

Fuel Guage is easily fixed by getting a 6-12 volt inline resistor available for a couple of dollars at most restoration, vintage parts and hotrod supply places.

If your vehicle has been fitted with electric wipers they will be too fast so you will need another (larger) inline resistor - talk to your Dick Smith type electrical supply place.

The horn will work fine on 12 volts if you put it on the bench with a 12 volt battery or battery charger and just touch the + wire to the horn terminal (body earthed to battery) then slowly turn the adjusting screw until the horn sings in an ear-pleasing manner. Use the touch test between adjustments, don't fasten the + lead onto the horn or you might cook it.

If you have all the parts on hand it will take you an hour to do the conversion.

Lang