Topic: Alternator conversion kit


GMB3    -- 07-02-2023 @ 4:11 PM
  Hello all,

New here, not my normal vehicle. I have been tasked with converting a 1937 Phaeton to a 12V alternator system.

I know there are kits available for this, bit I'm currently unable to find them. I thought there was company in San Jose, CA, I'm near there, that offered them.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.


carcrazy    -- 07-02-2023 @ 4:27 PM
  I don't know of any complete kits that are available to do this but there are several vendors who offer all of the individual parts required to accomplish this task. People to contact are: Fifth Avenue Antique Auto Parts, Speedway Motors and others.


Drbrown    -- 07-04-2023 @ 8:51 AM
  Alternators generally have the same front bolt-on pattern - one bolt each side of the front body. My conversion uses AC/Delco/GM alternators but I think Ford alternators may fit the same pattern. See if you can find the so-called yoke-saddle fitting for your engine that holds an alternator. Otherwise you need to resolve any issue with the belt/pulley set up. You'll be changing your system from Positive ground to Negative ground but I understand with Direct Current systems its not a problem. When buying an alternator you'll want to select the amperage size to suit your car's needs. I think mine is about 70 amp max, a little oversized. If buying a rebuilt, have a local electric shop check the output - sometimes the diode regulators inside are defective. Generally should not exceed 14.5 volts.

This message was edited by Drbrown on 7-4-23 @ 8:54 AM


carcrazy    -- 07-04-2023 @ 12:20 PM
  The most cost effective alternator to use is a GM Model 10 SI with 63 Amp output and internal regulator. The AC Delco part number is 321-39. It was available from AutoZone under part # DL7127M as a rebuilt unit. This alternator is for a 1978 Chevy Camaro with 350 cu.in. V-8 with A/C. Since you won't have a core or trade-in unit you will have to pay an additional approximately $10.00 core charge.

In addition to this alternator, to complete the conversion from a 6V + ground to a 12V - ground system you will need:
1. A "DA" Plug for adapting the alternator to your original wiring harness - this unit contains a diode to prevent the engine from continuing to run after you shut off the ignition switch.
2. Two "Runtz" voltage drops for 2 of your electrical dash gauges (Oil Pressure and Fuel). Simply reverse the connections on your Ammeter to have it read correctly.
3. A 12V Ignition Coil with internal ballast resistor
4. A pulley of the correct configuration for your application - belt width and mounting features for mechanical fan, if you choose to use it
5. An Alternator Mounting Bracket
6. 12V bulbs to replace all the 6V bulbs
7. Heavy-duty Battery Cables with negative to starter mounting bolt
8. Radio converted to 12V
9. Headlight Relay
10. 12V Heater Motor
11. 12V Battery
12. Early Ford V-8 Distributor Coil Adapter Kit.

There are multiple sources for these parts. Fifth Avenue, Speedway and AutoZone are some of them.

Although your original 6V Ford Starter Motor will work, it is highly recommended to have it rewired for 12V operation to avoid damaging the flywheel ring gear.

A 12V 14" Electric Radiator Cooling Fan from Fifth Avenue can be used if engine overheating is a problem. Note that this fan uses adjustable metal brackets that mount to the outside framework of the radiator to avoid the damage that can be caused by using Nylon ties to the radiator core.

There may be additional small items that I have missed.

This message was edited by carcrazy on 7-4-23 @ 12:23 PM


37RAGTOPMAN    -- 07-04-2023 @ 3:41 PM
  hi
try CERTIFIED AUTO ELECTRIC in OHIO,
e-mail 6vto12v@gmail.com 440 439 1100
hope this helps 37Ragtopman ask for Jeff

This message was edited by 37RAGTOPMAN on 7-5-23 @ 7:03 AM


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