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6 -to-12 Volt Generator Conversion!

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by kevinmc, Apr 4, 2014.

  1. kevinmc

    kevinmc New Member

    I have found a bunch of threads about complete 12 volt electrical system conversions, but has anyone converted their early 6-volt generator to 12-volt using new fields? If so where did you find the parts?

    It looks like I am going to have to change the old generator out with a fancy new 12 volt alternator! Bummer.
     
  2. timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    I would expect that the 1960-ish Jeeps with the 12V option had a 12V generator. Walck's sells them. Or get one of those fancy alternators that looks like a generator.
     
  3. PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Last edited: Apr 4, 2014
  4. wheelie

    wheelie beeg dummy 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor

    Isn't the 12V generator a direct, bolt in replacement for the 6V unit. I guess a new regulator would be required along with all the other necessary changes.
     
  5. Howard Eisenhauer

    Howard Eisenhauer Administrator Staff Member

    This tweaked my curiosity a bit.. A little research has turned up that a 6 volt generator will actually put out 12 volts when used with a 12 volt regulator, although the field coils my burn out if too great a load is placed on the genny. Apparently the field coils can be replaced with the heavier 12 volt units, possibly you could find an automotive electrical shop that could wind you a set of 12v coils or perhaps you can find them on the net- ebay lists Prestolite 12 v coils but who knows if they'd be what you need for your particular model of genny.

    http://www.ebay.com/bhp/prestolite-generator

    H.
     
  6. kevinmc

    kevinmc New Member

    Thanks for the information guys.

    My plan, I am going to replace the coil, regulator, lights, and add a reducer for the fuel gauge ... and see what happens and how long the 6-volt generator lasts. I am assuming it won't go up in a ball of flames!

    If you are curious about rebuilding a generator I have found this.

    http://1944gpw.com/c-93-G503_WWII_Jeep_6_volt_Autolite_Generator_Rebuild_Restore.aspx


    Oh, I also ordered the wiring harness from from Walck's for my '55 5. Perhaps I am getting a little lazy in my old age! I can post photos installing the wiring harness if anyone is interested. Carl seems like a nice fella, I ended up ordering a bunch of parts from him including a couple of old wheels. The stuff should arrive tomorrow, so tonight is like Christmas Eve!
     
    Last edited: Apr 7, 2014
  7. PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor