Starter solenoid needed

[luvmyclassics]

I am converting my 51 to 12 v. Can someone suggest a solenoid to use since there are only 6v solenoids for this year.

[GB SISSON]

The 6 volt solenoid is more than adequate. Because 6 volt requires more amps to do the same work it is built heavier inside than a 12 volt. If you can get one with the start button on the bottom, it's very handy. Napa should have one and their Echlin brand seems like a better product than some out there.

[oldskool]

I used the original one and never had a problem

[Karl Wolf]

1956 up Ford is a 12v solenoid... I've never messed with a 1951, so I don't know whether it's power to actuate, like the 56 Ford, or ground to actuate like my 1939 Ford.

Like others, I would use the 6v...

Karl

[cas3]

a little off topic, but sorta fits: the model T guys will put an old starter bendix spring in the wire to the starter for a big resistor to slow up the starter and keep the 12 volts from wrecking starter drives. anyone heard of that?

[51 MERC-CT]

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Been using the original 6 volt solenoid on my '51 with 12 volts for over 20 years. (must be doing something wrong?)

[Jack E/NJ]

I dunno? My original early38 solenoid just took a dump after converting it to 12v in 1962.

Jack E/NJ

[4t8v8]

I also lost a 6V solenoid. Mounted a '56 up solenoid insulated from ground, ran the POS wire to it and hooked the starter button to the frame of the solenoid. Been working great for over 31 years.

[GB SISSON]

There are two meanings to 'POS' it can be confusing....

[Flathead]

Yeah, but POS (alternate meaning) does not apply to our Fords.

[Karl Wolf]

Originally Posted by cas3

a little off topic, but sorta fits: the model T guys will put an old starter bendix spring in the wire to the starter for a big resistor to slow up the starter and keep the 12 volts from wrecking starter drives. anyone heard of that?

I also works to take a starter from a y block or Fe and use the 12v barrel and fields with the flathead starter armature and drive to make a 12v starter that is powerful and does not overspeed... I did it, $20 or so rebuilt starter from Kragen, plus $20 core charge.

Search for the subject on this site or the Hamb...

Karl

[4t8v8]

I think I understand -
POS = Positive
POS = Piece of Sculpture.

[chap52]

I use the 12 vt. one called for in the 56 Ford. Works great.

[GB SISSON]

Originally Posted by Flathead

Yeah, but POS (alternate meaning) does not apply to our Fords.

Of course! But I was referring to the wire, which could have come from who knows where.....Rereading it doesn't make much sense. I do that sometimes. Sorry for any blasphemy I have committed.

[Kahuna]

Again, another vote for using the original. Still working after 26 years

[RalphM]

I used an original nos 6 volt on my AV8, has worked great, but the push button did stick on me once.

[19Fordy]

I used this 12V solenoid when I converted my 40 to 12V. They are available at any auto parts place. I by passed the OEM starter button and installed a push button starter switch under the dash as a theft deterent. The OEM buttom is not in use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Starter-Sole...-/261275584330

[Karl Wolf]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

I used this 12V solenoid when I converted my 40 to 12V. They are available at any auto parts place. I by passed the OEM starter button and installed a push button starter switch under the dash as a theft deterent. The OEM buttom is not in use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Starter-Sole...-/261275584330

Hook up the horn to the old starter button, you'll know if you hear the horn that you should go look at your car...

Karl

[JSeery]

I like that idea! LOL

[FTreadway]

I converted my '39 Ford truck from 6V positive ground to 12V negative ground. Everything worked fine when I had a temporary control panel (start button, on/off switch, etc.). In this temporary set-up, I used a 12V starter solenoid. When I wired everything permanently, I used the original 6V solenoid. Does it matter that this solenoid was originally used in a positive ground system? The problem I encountered is when I turned the switch on, the wiring immediately got really hot. I turned it off before anything burned up. A bench check of the solenoid with a 12V battery prior to installation was good. Any suggestions?