6 to 12 Volt Conversion, Everything you NEED

[@darylreaume]

i just wanted to thank you for all of the informative videos you have on your channel.they have helped me out a great deal. 3 years ago i bought a 47 mercury 114x convertible . it had a worn out engine , which i removed with your help. when i got it back i had to do some valve replacement , got a bent valve , you helped me with that , installed offenhauser heads with your help, four barrel carb, changed it over to 12 volt, resolved some tranny issues, the list goes on and on all because of your help, going to tackle the brakes next. ..as of today the car is up and running thanks to you

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Awesome! I’m glad I could be of some help! Always feel free to message me on Instagram if you ever have any questions

[@darylreaume]

thank you i sure will

[@benschenher6180]

Bless you. Just found your page now and you’ve made things seem much less intimidating. I have a 1949 Kaiser sedan with virtually zero support online unlike the big 3 and other models and I’ve never tried a 12v swap before, so this has made it seem more possible although I still have a billion things to learn about it all

[@KristianDaKid]

Same brother same.. 67 stang youtube mechanic novice.. this channel is all the confidence I was lacking haha

[@johnbriers6974]

Just came across your channel, I bought an original 1950 Plymouth deluxe with a 6 v system. The video is very helpful.

[@chevvyloverr]

Awesome Video, and great knowledgeable info. I am working on a 1940 Plymouth 2 dr sedan. You were extremely helpful and I probably will sleep better tonight having found the answers to my large hurdle.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

That’s great! I am glad I could be some help

[@sunderwood9321]

Really informing and interesting! Love the level of detail that covers all the what if’s! Thank you!

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

No problem thank you for watching!

[@harrycatrell1471]

That concept is absolutely brilliant! Thanks for sharing, Zac! Enjoy your weekend! Be safe!

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thank you Harry! I am glad you found it interesting

[@mannysr67]

They also sell batteries that look just like the old 6 volt batteries, and they aren’t expensive. Worth sharing for folks who like the original vintage look. 👍

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Right on great idea

[@btrent9244]

Thank you. This video answered my question of converting a 6V horn to a 12V system. 👍🇺🇸.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

no problem I am happy to help!

[@btrent9244]

One last question regarding horns. I have a twin trumpet horn set that I took off my 1947 Ford Super Deluxe car when we restored it and put all new 12v components in the car. I want to use that horn on another restoration where we changed every component to 12V and installed an 8 cyl LS GM motor in the 1951 Chevy 3100 Panel Truck. What do I need to do in order to use the horn from my old 6V Ford? Thank you.

[@MyHairyChin]

I pieced my own kit together off of vintage auto garage, as my 38 pontiac didnt need 4 of the items offered in there kit, I'd just be paying more for them parts to just sit on my shelf... saved my self couple hundred that way, there expensive but there parts are top notch and there customer service is excellent 👌 , do your homework before ordering to make sure you buy the right kit or parts!! Definitely recommend them

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

I couldn’t agree more!

[@flatheadronsgarage7345]

Just found your channel, Subbed. Very nice video. I like your approach and attitude about USA products, thank you

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

No problem thank you for watching Ron!

[@Lil-Frank47]

Amazing Video, I Can Finally Start My 6v to 12v Conversion On My 51 Deluxe

[@DirtSweatGears]

I'm amazed. They actually have a Studebaker conversion kit too. It doesn't look like a generator, which is a bummer, but even the most pure of purists understand the desire to convert to 12 volt.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

You would be surprised just how much hate mail and negative comments I get from purist saying I shouldn’t have changed from 6 volt to 12

[@DirtSweatGears]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop I suppose I underestimate the amount of bile that can be produced by the internet. Still doing this to my Studebaker because I'm tired of wasting money on 6 volt batteries just to move my truck 20 feet in the yard once a year. I hear 6 volts REALLY don't like sitting on a shelf, and from my experience it seems to be true.

[@michaeldarby2242]

Thank you for your time, I been a little confused on what I need to do with my 37 chrysler.

[@cflchurch2526]

Zack, just subbed man. I have a 50' ford f1 stake bed . Thanks for giving me hope on keeping my flathead in good working order.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

No problem I love to help! 50 is a great year truck, good steering good brakes and good motor/trans set up

[@johnbower5732]

Will this kit work on my 1949 lincoln cosmopolitan 2 door coupe? It has the 337 ci flathead v8.

[@realrivtastic]

Great video and thanks for this walk through. I’m looking at the 12 volt conversion for my newly acquired 49 shoebox and this vid helped.

[@Wayz5145]

Awesome. I have a 55 F100 6 volt truck. 223 six banger. Runs great but the wiring is scary. Old, cracked, loose ends hanging everywhere, Needs to be rewired. I like the generator looking alternator. Want to keep my stock truck looking like stock. Keep on making videos. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

No problem! Thank you so much for watching!

[@mancarrie]

Nice, very nice presentation !!

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thank you!

[@dannytrolinder4400]

My father in law bought a 1930 model A. Its been converted to 12 volts. He just had turn signals installed. The wire that goes to the battery is actually hooked up to the alternator. My question is, the turn signal switch is hot all the time. And the switch is getting hot... all the wiring is wired correct. Other then the wire thats hooked to the alternator instead of the battery. Thank you for sharing your videos and the valuable information. .

[@gspensley91]

About to attempt conversion on 1950 IHC pickup. Scared. Your video helped. I'd like to get the petronic system to replace the points and condenser. I had O' reillys check a 1991 Volvo alternator ( works) that I intend to use. Wish me luck. Arnie

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Good Luck! Let me know how that distributor works out

[@cjohnsonlp]

Just bought a 52 F1 i6 215, I'm really considering doing the conversion, so this is going to be helpful. I'm sure I will have questions

[@mava1040]

Hello ! Im back to bug you with more questions 😁 . Im ready to order my 12v conversion kit. Now , what im wanting to know 1 ) is there a place to get led 12v light bulbs as a bundle ? I can't seem to find anything online. 2) which would be best , when it comes bulbs that come with directional signals or without directional signals. Which would i need ? I saw a bulb bundle on Chev 40 , but are regular bulbs and not led. If i don't find led bulbs , ill order regular 12v bulbs . Hope you don't mind the questions

[@JRMorgan1000]

This is a big help for a first time builder! I have a 3 terminal starter solenoid. Do I need the jumper wire from one terminal to the other?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

When you say three I picture something like the original starter solenoid that's switched by power, if you only have the three connections as 1: to starter 2: from battery 3: trigger, then you are going to need a new solenoid like the one in the video.

[@deMarcLyon]

Is it possible to get your entire parts order list for this install. We too are coverting a 1949 fire truck from 6v to 12v.

[@bentownsend7359]

I have a 48 international with no grounds. The positive wire goes to the transmission but there are no other grounds on the truck. Should I ground the engine and cab to the frame? Thanks.

[@johnroberts7747]

Bought 50 model. It has been converted except for the heater and horn. What's the best way to be able to run the heater motor. Any information appreciated.

[@guadalupeorozco1394]

Thank you you turned me on to this company Vintage Auto. Have been stuck on switching to 12 volts. My 56 Bel Air has power assist. Didn’t want to buy different brackets and moving the alternator and a different power steering local. Once again thanks.

[@jeffperry4239]

Hi there, great video it sets me a little more at ease over re-doing my uncles 1940 oldsmobile. Question is what about all the wiring for the lights? Do you reuse existing wires or replace, I didn't see them come out of the box, thanks. Also when going on the site for oldsmobile I see it starts at 1941 olds but I thought the 1940 was the same as the 41?

[@mikerayis456]

Thanks for all the videos. After purchasing one of vintage auto garage kits, will i still need to convert voltage for the wipers, fuel pump, oil pump, heater, etc... thank you for your help

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Glad I could be some help! Hard to cover every car so sorry about that

[@WaxedSurf]

Is it worth doing the 6 volts to 12, even on a 4 Banger? and if it is and you want to move the battery to in the back but there is a rumble seat where would you put it? Thanks

[@BengSilver]

Great video , as always .!

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

I appreciate it Ben!

[@johnnelson1035]

What about the heavy duty signal switch makes the car safer? Would you not be able to have factory turn signals and hazards and use the 12v bulbs? My electrical knowledge is my weakest link in my car hobby lol keep that in mind

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Hi John, the biggest advantage for my build is that the truck has no signals, that’s what’s making it so much safer, if your factory turn signal is switching the blinker on and off, I would at least want to put in a 12 volt flasher

[@sniper001353]

Thanks for the info on the KIT👍👊

[@Mryiyo209.]

That red dually is bad ass.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Great truck!

[@lowhunggarage9519]

Awesome video, very professional

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thank you!

[@eastfarthing69]

Great video. I am almost done with my 1949 Ford F47 pickup (Canadian). What do you recommend for the heater motor conversion? Can I use a voltage reducer? Or do I need a new fan motor or all new heater? Thanks

[@THEFLATSPOT]

I love this so much.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thank you! The video or the shirt? Lol

[@THEFLATSPOT]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop The video, but the shirt is nice too. I am working on a new dealer and will send you a few more styles when I can.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@@THEFLATSPOT awesome sounds great!

[@jjjccc987]

Do you need to change the 6v starter as well or can you keep it? If you are converting to 12v. I converted my 1952 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 62 to 12v and I am not sure if I need to buy the 12v gear reduction starter from vintage auto garage

[@WaxedSurf]

Hey Zac, are these (The change from 6 to 12 volts or are alternators the issue) allowed if you intend to race at TROG or is there a way around that? You info is awesome keep up the great work in 2025 ! Looking forward to it.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Hey if you want to race at TROG then you can get a power master, it’s an alternator that looks like a generator! Call Vintage Auto Garage and let them know I sent you, they can get you all set up on the correct one to fit your motor and car

[@bryanrabel5081]

Great video. I just bought an untouched original 1953 Dodge D150 that's all 6 volt. I want to convert it to 12 volts. I want to keep as much original as possible. Can I convert the generator and starter and keep the housings?

[@ramonmenindez8013]

All these parts work on a ‘35 Ford?

[@Markinthemiddle]

Great video, thanks for sharing. Subscribed.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thanks Mark I appreciate it!

[@mava1040]

I have a question. I have 53 Bel Air , that I'm wanting to convert to 12v. I'm also wanting to get the led cluster gauge from DAKOTA. I wouldn't need the multi guage reducer , if I get this 12v led cluster , right ?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

That’s correct! Depending on what original electronics you keep, the only reducer you’ll need is the blower motor

[@mava1040]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop Thanks for your response. I'm also going to get my one of those vintage radios , that are replicas of the original ones , that are also led

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@ nice! I am a big fan of Retro Sound brand

[@briansherman3961]

Great video!

[@Theupstateidiots]

Did you have to reverse the polarity of the starter internally?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

You do not, the starters spin is determined by how its wound internally, no matter the battery polarity the starter spins the same way

[@heathsmetalwerx]

So with the voltage converter and a 1949 f1 dash, the dash uses a bridge for power and has 1 input for the guages so I would only need to use one output on the device to power all 3 guages? Or should they be done individually and use each input pole for the power and each output of device?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

I run each gauge it’s own power wire, that our you can split one power wire to got to each, either way I always get rid of the bus bars

[@heathsmetalwerx]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop cheers mate appreciate the reply!

[@glennmartinez5324]

I have 1948 plymouth couple 6cl what do i need a kit 6 to 12v sys and costs. Thinks

[@dalehelpingstine4461]

Zac, love this video and all you are doing to help us guys with old Fords. I have a 32 3-window coupe and I want to convert to 12-V. My wire harness is bad so I bought a new universal harness from Speedway and I just got a new PowerMaster flathead style 12-V alternator. Does anyone make a pulley conversion that mounts the fan like the original mounts to the generator pulley? Thanks.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thank you for watching! I’ve seen guys machine their own alternator pulleys to accept the fan, from their experience we learned that the alternator bearings are not built for the forward thrust the fan creates and it makes the alternator work for a short time before destroying its bearings. You have three options, one to run the mid mount fan if you have the room, run the fan off of the crank if you have the room, or run an electric fan.

[@dalehelpingstine4461]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop Thanks Zac. Looks like I’ll be looking at an electric fan conversion too. One thing always leads to another.

[@CaptBobGT62]

Good video! I have a 1942-1948 Flathead in my 39 Ford. It has a rebuilt generator with an external voltage regulator mounted on the firewall and has been converted to 12 Volt POSITIVE ground. It quit on me after 1,000 miles and I traced it to no power at the coil which lead me to a faulty "in line" resistor. I removed the resistor, connected the two wires and went straight to a new coil which has a built in regulator bought from NAPA. I haven't fired it up yet, as I am waiting. Assuming this works and I believe it will get me running again, I plan to buy and install a one wire alternator and convert to NEGATIVE ground 12 volt. I think I presently have the original starter solenoid on it (The one with the starter button on it underneath for remote starting). My question to you is, do I need to buy the starter solenoid described in the video and replace the one on the vehicle? I think I understood you to say I might get 70% life out of the starter by using 12 volts versus 6 volt assuming that it is a 6 volt starter. Your comments and advice will be most appreciated.

[@saulvergara955]

What guage wire should I run from the alternator back to the battery?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

6 gauge in short distance, 4 gauge for a longer distance

[@CLEchay97]

I am ordering the kit, to convert my 47 Ford super deluxe to 12 volt. But I want a person that has done it many times. Is it possible you could recommend someone either in Northeast, or Northwest Ohio... Along Lake Erie. would be so grateful, for your help.

[@darrenromig4561]

So my 55 Dodge has the power steering pump attached to the generator. If I change it to 12 V what power steering pump do I use? Because I wouldn't be able to use the old one. Does Vintage Garage offer PS pumps? Thanks for the awesome video. Very helpful.

[@danchamberlain6069]

Dude it would be easier to just mount a seperate alternater .

[@timothyliegey3333]

Hey Zac. I am wondering if there is a start solenoid specific for 6v positive ground? The one I bought for 40 ford pickup has 6v to it so when I jump the start button pole to neg it cranks but the button does nothing because there seems to be positive already at the solenoid. Is that correct? Thanks

[@arturodelossantos2844]

I am working on 1953 Chevrolet 210 sedan what kit do I need to go from 6 to 12 volts if u can help me out plz

[@johnjones3792]

Thank you very much for your knowledge how can I get in touch with you how can I get in touch with you I have a 1946 Ford my retirement car

[@LesterDeem]

Saw your video, would like for you to do mine on a F-1 1950 Ford.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Hi Lester. Send me an email [e-mail]

[@karlfrye7292]

You talk about adding a new horn relay and starter relay, but don't address the horn and starter. I'm assuming that I will need to source a 12V horn and starter?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

The Flathead ford starter will work with both 6 and 12 volts, the problem here is that a starter that was going to last 15 years is now going to last 10 years as an example, a voltage reducer is required for some horns

[@kurtludwig4783]

I’m going to check them out. I have an unique situation. 1948 English Ford Anglia street Rod in the Resto Rod style. Everything new 12 volt except trafficators I want to retain. They only have 6volt bulbs turn signal wires controlled in center of steering wheel with wires running through stator to steering box those wires run only to trafficators and used no flasher .

[@gordarmstrong7864]

I have a 1062 ford f3 I was thinking of changing from 6 volt to 12 volt could be interested in that conversion kit

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Awesome! Check them out on the vintageautogarage.com website

[@bruceramsay601]

I just bought a 1932 Pontiac four door sedan. In line six. the car is great except the engine is done. What can i bolt in for new engine I do not want to hot rod it... The car is just too good as a survivor

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

A ford Flathead inline six is easy to find and pretty reliable, any motor you put in will need fabrication like motor mounts and transmission mounts, hopefully your 32 has a drive shaft opposed to a torque tube, that will make this process easier

[@cjohnsonlp]

Do you offer this install as a service?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

I sure do

[@cjohnsonlp]

Where are you located? I am in KY. I have a 1952 F1 i6 -1:10 215. After watching your vids I'd really like to convert to a 12. You definitely have the best vids, I love them.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@@cjohnsonlp thank you I appreciate it, I am located in Waverly Virginia

[@cjohnsonlp]

Oh wow, that would be an 8.5 hour haul for me. 😖. I guess I'm going to have to dig into it myself. 😖😖😖

[@infrabasse]

Great products and super informative video here, but anyone know of similar kits available in Europe? Looking into converting a '36 Ford Sedan

[@markiemark3647]

How much did you pay for the kit and some additional? Tia

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

check out the Vintage Auto Garage webpage, not sure on current prices, would hate to tell you something that's not current, the last two years prices have gone up and down depending on availability

[@jamestee007]

Good information thanks

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

No problem! Thank you for watching

[@foundationsofpower3191]

2 comments. 1) the whole reason we pull out the DC generator and replace it with an AC alternator (and rectify it back to DC) is that the genny has almost no output at slow speeds or idle. We have to be going about 20mph to actually start charging the batt. The alternator puts out high power right from the get go. 2) For those doing this conversion, keep your 6V starter. They are robust and the 12V just makes them faster and higher torque. Mine is still starting my Chevy 235 after 30 years. Wait until it burns out before replacing it.

[@markhodapp4035]

I am a newby. Please explain pertronics.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Pertronix is an electric trigger for the coil, before pertronix there was Points, two contacts that can wear and float at high rpm, pertronix is the upgrade from points

[@ninja63639]

It's a brand name. They make drop in electronic conversion kits for points distributors. It replaces the points and condenser

[@carthur1036]

Very cool!!

[@aroundlinemen]

Nice 👍

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thanks for watching!

[@mariocanal6837]

My name is Mario I'm in California I have a 1952 pickup I would like to change all the wires I hope u can help me please

[@mardyfisher693]

Thanks.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

Thanks for watching

[@andrel3]

Gotcha a new shop space?

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

I put an extension on my garage, also adding 4 more bays, just waiting on concrete

[@andrel3]

Congrats Zac! That’s as important as the cars

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@@andrel3 for sure!

[@HaroldTravis-v6b]

1940 Chevy coulp

[@jamesbosworth4191]

There is no need to convert to 12 volts. Just use 1 gauge, not 4 gauge or worse yet, 6 gauge, battery cables, and always use a Group 2 battery, never a Group 1 battery. If you still want more oomph, try using an 8 volt battery. All you have to do is re-adust your regulator so that your generator voltage is 10.5 volts, instead of 8.5 volts. And yes, there are 6 volt alternators.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

How about breaking down and needing a jump? Any car can jump a 12 volt system, or adding more electronics to the car, how about the original wiring needing replacement? A 12 volt generic wiring harness is a quarter the cost of an original style replacement, there is many situations to switch to 12 volt

[@jamesbosworth4191]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop If you need a jump, what you do is hook up the jumper that would go to your ground terminal of your dead battery to a dirty spot on your engine, such as the generator tensioning bracket. There will be enough resistance to keep the 12 volts from the jumper battery from frying your accessories. And with a classic car, you should use a factory style wiring harness, not a hot rod style wiring harness. Remember, restored means RETURNED TO STOCK CONDITION, not modified or "improved", only STOCK, otherwise it is not a true restoration, and it is destroying our automotive history. I still say use an 8 volt battery if you want more oomph. Even Amazon sells 8 volt batteries.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@@jamesbosworth4191 you’re being too picky, I can restore a car and make it 12 volts without most people telling the difference

[@jamesbosworth4191]

@@WiredCustomsSpeedShop That's not the point. Restored means just that - Returned to factory-fresh. If you convert it to 12 volts, you have MODIFIED it. Plus, I like the idea of being able to use factory accessories, like a factory radio, a factory clock, factory power windows and factory power seat, etc. If you convert to 12 volts, you have to use different-year counterparts. If you just put an 8 volt battery in it, you get to deep everything stock. Way better solution. Even Amazon sells 8 volt batteries.

[@WiredCustomsSpeedShop]

@@jamesbosworth4191 I can convert to 12 and use all the factory components