40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

Looking for some advice on converting a restored 40 Pick Up to 12V
A friend ask me to do it for him as he has no confidence in the 6V system.
I already explained that millions of cars ran 6V successfully for millions of miles over the years..... Crickets......SOOOOO.....
now we're (I'm) exploring the project.
He already has a Powergen alternator that looks like an original generator.
The plan is to swap out the Gen for the Powergen (it's a 1 wire style)
Change all the bulbs to 12V. Replace the coil with a 12V unit and the battery.
I'm not sure about the ignition resistor.
Also the headlight harness has what look some circuit breakers or fuses.
I think the fuses are OK but not sure about the rest.
All wiring etc. is new and in perfect condition
Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks All

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

32phil: Be sure to read post #8 here. Tells how to convert 40 BATT gauge to operate on
12V. Make sure you don't have an ammeter. This works only with Volt Meter BATT gauge.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showt...940+batt+gauge

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

you will need to change the voltage going to the gauges, use a runtz resistor on each gauge -oil pressure, water temp and gas gauge- the volt gauge that is on deluxe cars is a bit different follow 19fordy advice. when you go from six to twelve volts you halve the amperage so the wiring is not a problem. I would install a volt meter in some out of the place so you will really know how much voltage you have and also will let you see if the alternator is working (14 volts) when charging

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

Re your question about the ignition resistor:
If you will be using a 12V coil (3 ohm), the resistor needs to be by-passed, taken out of the circuit.

I think the lighting circuit breaker or fuse can be left as is.

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

Skip should be able to convert the coil to 12-volt if is still has the old Ford coil. You may want to ask Skip about the ballast resistor. It may not be necessary with his conversion.

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

Sounds like confidence building will solve the problem without screwing everything else up. Otherwise maybe go to 24 volt, maybe 32 volt, that will ensure more confidence.
Just my opinion.

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

The word out on the power gens is mixed. Time will tell if it will hold up or not.

Re: 40 Pick Up change to 12 V
 

Phil, I am a strong advocate for leaving it 6v. It sounds as if you've done a lot of what's necessary to make it start easily and charge just fine.
Complete that journey and you won't have any issues.