6V to 12V Conversion Simplified (Answers for a viewer)

We were contacted by a viewer with questions about doing a 12v conversion on a Ford 640. This is a show and tell of just that, with some terrible hand drawn schematics!
Electronic Ignition & Coil set - amzn.to/2JsxCDM
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Welcome to the American Tradesmen Channel! First of all, we appreciate you taking your time to check out our content. We put a lot of thought into our channel before we ever made a single video. You're not going to hear profanity on our channel. What you will hear is a little humor and a little how-to. There's literally no telling what we'll be doing, we dabble in a little of everything. We can guarantee you will see plenty of tractors, bulldozers, excavators, trucks, diesel stuff, welding, and repair videos. There's a wide array of equipment showcased, anything from John Deere, International, Farmall, Ford, Komatsu, and the list goes on. If this seems like stuff you're interested in, check us out! We would love to hear from you in the comments or over on our Facebook and Instagram pages. To keep up with the latest projects make sure to subscribe and click the notification bell. Hit the "Like" button and let KZbin know you're enjoying the content we produce. Those thumbs ups help other folks discover us and we appreciate it!

[@rickgrant5844]

Yes, I really appreciate it was explained very well. I’m mechanically inclined also very much so actually just some of the swapping this old technology with new technology is a little daunting making the change though the electronic ignition is superior and every way you can think of converting to 12 V, that’s more common in it much better easier to work with more content like this is great explaining things very well and your diagrams are perfect. I had a construction company and I actually drew a print on a napkin and they let me pull the permit to Bill do the remodel off the napkin so I really appreciate, what you

[@NoName-pp3kj]

By far the best explanation yet! Seperate start button and ignition switch conversion to standard 4 wire ignition switch with nuetral safety switch conversion would be nice someday too. Also fuel gauge and ampmeter in curcuit

[@markosborne2650]

Thanks for the refresher. I have Done this, but it was 45yrs ago. After watching this I can confidently do it again. Again Thanks.

[@MedicAl911]

Thank you. I will be converting my 1959 Ford 841 to 12 volt negative ground soon. I have watched several videos and learn a little something from each one. I am also going to switch out the points in favor of electronic ignition.

[@TreasuresOfTexas]

And great video by the way. I'm having hell getting my 48 started...

[@codya3263]

Channel deserves more subs. Really good content...

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Thanks man! Glad you're enjoying it

[@justicebruno5249]

That actually helped a lot. Mine was ground positive..was little confused

[@dannyenos9236]

Not exactly what I was looking for, but enjoyed it anyway.

[@kirksawler1199]

I’m happy I found your channel, I have a ford 800 I need to convert to 12 volt real soon, I just subscribed

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Kirk we’re glad you found us! Thanks for the sub and I hope we can keep putting out content you enjoy and find useful

[@ourtime1981]

Great video. Working on a to 20 Ferguson put electronic ignition on. Didn't know about getting proper coil to match. Will do that now before completing restoration. Good advice. Thanks

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Glad our video could help, thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@GosselinFarmsEdGosselin]

You know how to do it😎👍 Done a few.. easy if you have a little knowledge.. Just watch this video!! Delco single wires are the best!!! Andy says two wires. Should only be one bigger wire at the alternator.. BTW, safety is free, use it!!!!

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Don’t know why it just let me know I had comments on this video. Either way, good to see you Ed!

[@GosselinFarmsEdGosselin]

@@AmericanTradesmen LoL.. KZbin has been social distancing 🤣😂 Notifications have been messed up for a few weeks.. I'm finally getting them, but only if I'm on KZbin.. I went three or four days with no notification on my channel.. glad it came back!!

[@Mac-A5]

I’ve always wanted a Ford Tractor. So I Purchased one in 2017. I constantly have trouble starting it and the wiring looks like it was half-a$$ done so I’m going to tackle converting 6v to 12 volt so I can eventually add its lights.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

A Funari-Hix I think you’ll be glad once the conversion is complete. Good luck and hope all goes smooth for you! Thanks for watching!

[@BGilly-ub4ji]

You da man. Thank you, because of this video I’m in business again!!

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Glad the video helped you!

[@arthurneroshchin5015]

Amazing video. Thanks for explaining it so well.

[@TheRobodoc130]

Thank you I am new to tractors and this was brilliant.

[@craigmcfall3789]

Thanks for the information! I’m going to try tomorrow! I will lyk!

[@carleplank3530]

I like to ask about the external resistor that tractors have from 12:00 to 6:00 you didn't mention anything about the external resistor on this cuz you're already at 12 volts if you're going 12 volts and going down to six you need that resistor and explain exactly what it does I'm not sure thank you carl plank

[@undercoveroverwater8413]

Hey brother, I just got a ‘53 jubilee and the wiring was horrendous! Thank you for being straightforward in your explanation. Ps I am putting voltmeter on mine!

[@stansummers6259]

U did a great job sir

[@albertbarrientos1575]

good and helpful info. thank you.

[@jon7091]

Thank you so much for being so detailed. I subscribed because of your great video

[@dougbreitmayer4712]

Very helpful! Thanks!!

[@leeadams5544]

Is that a voltage regulator up high near the ignition switch? How does it factor in? Does it need to be converted from 6 to 12 volts? Exactly what Genny do you ask for as far as amperge and which model number Genny and brand? i Where do you get the extension bracket for the alternator? And does that require a longer belt as a result?

[@stevekissinger2505]

Yes can you please show the one with points

[@fredgould9362]

Great explanation! Thank you!!

[@cristobalvillalpando7451]

Video was very helpful, thank you

[@DanaJumper]

Shouldn't the jumper on the alternator be on terminal 2 instead of terminal 1? I thought terminal 2 was the exciter.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

You are absolutely correct! Honestly I don’t know how I got this backwards. I appreciate you pointing this out and will I will be making a correct version of this video so folks are getting the right information. Thank you for a respectful question, so many folks like to have the “smarter than you attitude”. Thank you for bringing this to my attention 👍

[@dudpap]

Do i need to change The 6v starter to 12v?

[@dannyb8651]

Very helpfull video. I do have a question how would the ammeter be connected?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I personally have encountered 3 different types of ammeter hook ups. The first, like on this particular tractor, there is a metal loop, or ring, on the back side of the gauge. Simply let your wire from the alternator pass through this loop. The next type has 2 studs on the back of the ammeter. Run from the alternator to one stud. From the other stud to your positive on the battery. The third you simply run a positive and a negative to the ammeter. Each of these will be labeled on the back with what they require (+) or (-). I hope that makes sense. If not we can make a video on that as well. Thanks for the question!

[@travistrammell3424]

Great video. Does the Electronic ignition go in stock ford distributor & can you use your old coil if you just got a new one?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Yes it does go in the stock distributor. As far as the coil, look at the specs on the electronic ignition and make sure your coil meets its requirements.

[@Hound427]

Just curious, I just bought an 8N with the front mount distributor. 49’ I’m thinking but wonder if you can also get an electronic distributor for it ? Thanks. Great video. I subscribed.

[@rickgrant5844]

Does the electronic ignition complete with pick up coil and magnet along with the actual coil and spark plugs

[@craigmcfall3789]

I recently bought a 640 that has points/ plugs . I need help with the proper wiring for them ! Ps tractor not running when I bought it! Thank you

[@ocatrina]

Nice Video! But didn't catch anything about the internal vs external coil resistor. Any help appreciated..Starting here on converting Farmall M 6 volt positive ground to 12 volt negative. Thanks!

[@robertpc100]

what typ fuse box you using? good straight wire set-up but would be nice to see if and what kind fuse box you have or do you need it.i have think its 53 with didtributor on right side like yours but they have made mess of having wires everywhere and different charging regulator which ill trash.thanks. draw another wiring diagram pls that shows all wiring needed and for lights pls.good job

[@darrenbowen1983]

I recently bought a 8n and 9n. The 9n came without a starter but has been converted. I have found a 6v starter. Can it be converted or is a 12v starter need to bought

[@stephensparks3974]

I’m wanting to use my starter button on the transmission, but my Solenoid will only activate with a hot wire instead of ground, how do I change that?

[@okskeeter278]

Very helpful

[@georgeschneider8132]

Nice job...

[@arthurneroshchin5015]

I don’t see a ground wire coming from alternator. Is that correct?

[@TreasuresOfTexas]

So when will you be making the new video about the terminal 2 being the exciter?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I’m working my way that way lol…things have been hectic

[@harveymiller6891]

Need a diagram showing how to hook up an amp meter on a Ford 600 tractor I am confused

[@textalk1on139]

This is a freakin killa video!! Do you have anything like this for a diesel tractor? I have a 1974 ford 3000 I’m trying to wire up with a alternator. I have a brand new wiring harness but its for a generator and voltage regulator and I’m goin to a one wire alternator

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Yes we do. I can’t copy the link on my phone but the title is Ford 3000 generator to alternator conversion. Thanks for the question/comment!

[@montenickerson8035]

Finally someone that makes it look simple. I'm getting ready to do this exact conversion to my 1949 Massey Harris Pony. Should I change the solenoid as well or will it be ok?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I know I didn’t on this particular tractor and it hasn’t let me down yet. As to your Massey Harris I can’t give you an honest answer without some research. Thanks for the comment and question!

[@terryadams3658]

Is there any thing different i have to do on my 6-12 volt conversion im using the points and not electric ignition

[@janetthompson2320]

1955 ford 850 tractor with 172 motor - would like to use 12 volt electric conversion - witch system 12volt positive ground or 12 volt negitive ground - also witch pluggs. thanks for ant help

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I would say 12v negative ground as that is most common. As far as plugs are you asking about spark plugs? If so, what ignition system will you be running? Points or electronic (Pertronix) type?

[@janetthompson2320]

@@AmericanTradesmen pertronix 12 volt negitive ground, yes what size spark plug, thanks scotty

[@AmericanTradesmen]

@@janetthompson2320 I use Autolite 437 plugs, they’re recommended for the 154 and 172 engines. I haven’t had any issues yet.

[@janetthompson2320]

@@AmericanTradesmen thanks for advice the tractor runs better than 1955, i followed your drawings used thes parts--pertronix 1244a igition - pertronix coil 40511 - pertronix wires 704180 437 spark plugs. thanks once again scotty

[@stevetodd551]

I'm finishing up my 12 volt conversion on my ford 841 and on my exciter plug im using it has a white wire (#1) I know this is for the red light that sits with the Guage cluster. Can you maybe show how that looks when properly installed? If I have it no reason it shouldn't be functional yaknow

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I’ll see what I can do, it may be a bit before I can get the video up. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@mudddoggzoutlaws110]

What starter solenoid do you have?

[@kentsmith2498]

I have a 600 ford that i want to convert to 12 v I was wondering if the positive ground on my 6 v system makes a difference or just making it neg.ground is just switching the bat cables

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Thanks for the question. Personally I haven’t changed a tractor from 6 volt positive ground to 12 volt negative ground. I have always been the lucky one to sort through or completely replace someone else’s conversion. I don’t want to give an answer that might cause big problems for you. If I had the tractor in front of me we could sort through it no problem, I just don’t want to guess and tell you wrong.

[@markosborne2650]

@@AmericanTradesmen That is what I'm doing, working on someone else's conversion. Right now the wire from the alt. is bare where the insulation burnt off of it. I'm more than sure I can fix it now.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

@@markosborne2650 that’s great! Sometimes that’s the hardest thing is going behind someone else. That’s the reason why I opted to start over on my tractor, it would have taken far too long to try to figure out the birds nest behind the dash. Thanks for commenting!

[@bennyprice4006]

My 601 ford is already 12 volt and starts from the switch but I want the starter button to work so it will not start in gear so what do I do to fix that?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

The factory start button provides a ground to the starter solenoid. You will need a starter solenoid that requires a ground for activation instead of 12 volt positive for activation.

[@MaxBrown-ro4ns]

My tractor won't click or turn over and I changed the starter and silniold and it still doesn't work!!! What else can I do??

[@hoobsgarage]

I have my alternator wired up just like this but it's not charging. Anyone have any ideas?

[@randyc1752]

Will this electronic ignition work on a ford 9n with 12v conversion?

[@steveboyd993]

I have and 801 Ford tractor that was converted to 12 Volt system before I purchased it, it is a positive ground, can i change over to a negative ground, by changing the positive and negative wires on the solenoid start sides?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

To be completely honest, I’d have to see the tractor in person before I would give you a definitive answer. Personally I have never worked on a 12v conversion that retained the positive ground. I don’t want to give an guess of an answer that might cause big problems for you.

[@steveboyd993]

I have looked at serval pieces of info on line, the ground wire is hooked to the starter solenoid and the positive wire was fastened to the support for the gas tank?

[@kg51qn]

Also my tractor is a ford 2000 think it’s a 1963. Will this fit it. I want to convert mine from 6 volt to 12 volt. And I want to go electronic ignition. I want to remove all mY old wires and put on all new. So can I just get rid of the existing wires and retire with all new gauges on it. What regulator should I also go with.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

If it’s a 63, which will have the same sheet metal design as the one in this video, yes it will work. If you use an ac delco you won’t need a regulator because the regulator is an internal part of the alternator. These tractors have very simple electronics, you can easily sit down and draw out a schematic for your wiring and go at it. Really appreciate you watching and the question 👍

[@stitches4897]

did you keep the original 6v solenoid or did you upgrade to a 12v because from the looks a 12v solenoid has 2 terminals coming off of the center of it just curious if the 6v solenoid will work on the 12v circuit

[@donaldepsteen3903]

Hello. I have a question about your tractor. Everything looks like original, which I believe would be a 6v system (starter, coil, distributor, ect..). You didn't have to change anything to use a 12v battery? Or is it a 6v system and battery? I have an old international 350 utility and am trying to figure out whether someone just put a 12v battery on a 6v system, or if it is actually a 12v system. Thanks

[@ourtime1981]

One question. The 6 volt lights may not work. Any suggestions.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

They’ll work and be VERY bright, but just for a second 😂 you’ll want to change them 12 volt. I put LED replacements in my factory headlamp buckets and they’re awesome. I’ll look back through my Amazon account and see if I can find the link for them. A standard 12v replacement will work, I just prefer LED myself.

[@robertstackhouse3621]

Electric motor spinning alternator 3250 rpm will not charge ????

[@johndoe5218]

What about the amp gauge

[@ashforkdan]

If you have a 6 volt mag can you keep it when you switch from 6 volt to 12 volt with out burning it up?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Well, if you’re working on one of these old Ford’s they don’t have magnetos. Their setup is like that in an old vehicle with a 6v positive ground system. Meaning that there is a coil, points and condenser. I haven’t done a conversion on something like a farmall with a magneto so I can’t answer that question with experience or accuracy. I hope to do a Farmall cub in the future and I’ll probably do a conversion on it. Only then would I be able to speak from experience or with confidence. Sorry I couldn’t be of more help.

[@johnwalters7415]

So can use your 6 volt starter

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Yes you can

[@gebwv84]

I still think that all these conversions all over Fron 6 to 12. Using the old 6 v starter is the wrong answer. Spins the bendix and engages flywheel much faster risking tearing up nose cones, ring gears and bendix.

[@genesisfarmhomestead2017]

I asked for this too, have tried it, but cannot get it to turn over. What could be wrong.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

GenesisFarmHomestead I need a little more info before I give you a suggestion. First, are you using the factory start push button. Next, am I understanding you converted to 12 volt? Let me know and I’ll be glad to try and help you out. Thanks for watching!

[@genesisfarmhomestead2017]

I order a new push button today from Steiner.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

GenesisFarmHomestead not trying to sound like a smart butt, just make sure that you know you’re grounding the solenoid with the factory push button.

[@genesisfarmhomestead2017]

Matt & Andy-American Tradesmen got the new push button grounded it with the solenoid but still no power. When I by pass the solenoid with jumper cables to the starter the engine turns. Tested plugs good. What else can I do.

[@tomwinkle5536]

Mine has positive from battery straight to starter and wire from ignition to solenoid

[@tomwinkle5536]

Does a voltage regulator come into play?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Not with this type of alternator as it has an internal voltage regulator.

[@justicebruno5249]

Man so my 12 volt generator has to go into voltage regulator then to starter solenoid...? I'm hoping

[@michealhunt3039]

My distributor only has one wire what doi need to do

[@donaldepsteen3903]

I have another question. What size battery would I use for an IH 350? Thanks

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Donald If it’s a gas burner or LP I would think that 500-550 cold cranking amps would be fine. If it’s a diesel model I’d go a little bigger due to the higher compression. Hope this helps and thanks for asking!

[@AmericanTradesmen]

I just looked up the IH 350 on tractor data, apparently the gas version was 6 volt while the LP and diesel were both 12 volt.

[@donaldepsteen3903]

@@AmericanTradesmen Thanks for answering my questions. Also, how do I know if the coil is an internal resistance 12v coil or a 6v coil that needs an external resistor for 12v conversion. When I bought the tractor, I believe the owner said it was converted, but everything looks original..So I'm not sure if it was done correctly. I do know that there is no generator nor alternator, and the voltage regulator box has the wires coming off of it but all lead to dead ends taped off. Real cobb job. So I ask again, how do I know if I need to put a resistor on the coil, or is it ok the way it is? Thanks

[@kg51qn]

Does this just fit inside current distribtuer or do I need to change it also.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

It mounts right where the points did in the existing distributor, unless your distributor is worn or damaged you shouldn’t need a new one

[@stevetodd551]

I just purchased my first tractor and it looks like yours. Is yours a Ford 841?

[@AmericanTradesmen]

This is a 640, little brother to the 800 series

[@stevetodd551]

I need a picture of the linkage where the friction washer is. I think my disk is upside down and there is a tab off where the throttle linkage gos that looks like its supposed to have a spring to it. In short my throttle wont stay open, I have to hold it open and steer at the same time. I'm new to this and I am not experienced yet. Can you help. I've looked at about everything and can't find any help

[@AmericanTradesmen]

@@stevetodd551 where’s the best place to send you a picture?

[@stevetodd551]

Well I've sent my email through this 4 times and each time I go back it has disappeared. Don't know how else to get it to you

[@AmericanTradesmen]

@@stevetodd551 I’m about to post a short video for you, let me know if it helps 👍

[@mikerichards6311]

👍

[@normanott644]

Why would you want change to 12 volts, 6 volts started cars and tractors for over 50 years. If everything is working correctly 6 works fine.

[@hoovercamaro]

6 volt batteries aren't sold on the shelf as easily and cheap as they Use to, and if you switch to 12 volt you can get rid of the old Regulator.

[@tractorman4461]

I agree on the electronic system. My '72 Ford 2000 refuses to start in cold weather and I just changed it to a Petronix system and can't wait until it gets cold to see how it does. My 800 is converted to the Delco like yours as well as a number of my others. If you'd like to take the time, check this one out, its not quite the same as your conversion, I use a voltmeter in the circuit. This is pretty much from start to end from making a bracket to the wiring. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYC3cmx7m814pdU Btw...good video and well done. Your drawings are far more superior than mine. Thanks for the informative video.

[@AmericanTradesmen]

Thanks for the comment and kind words, and I’m headed over to check your video/channel out now 👍

[@Farmtractorrescue]

No amp\volt meter I guess?

[@robertstackhouse3621]

My altinator will not charge!!!

[@jeffreydevoti7000]

I put a Vega alternator on a Ford tractor 30 years ago, weren't no KZbin then. Got a Chevrolet and Ford wiring diagram and Drew out what I needed. Then took every wire on it off and started from scratch. Used correct size wires, fuseable links, fuses then wrapped wires & put in factory clamps. Couldn't tell it didn't come from the factory that way. Charged 14 volts at idle. Since no one was any help when I did mine, I don't give out wiring Diagrams...figure it out yourself or put on one of those 1 wire jobs ( that I wouldn't use). I've seen some God awful messes that others have done, loose wires hanging out all over the place. One bright individual put the starter button on top of the hood and live wired it to the battery. Anybody that dumb deserves getting their ring gear and starter destroyed.

[@jodywhite2848]

What’s the resistor for in the alternator/bracket kit? Is it optional?