generator-alternator conversion

Why convert? It cost $75 to get my generator rebuilt. And that's if the voltage regularot is OK. A 12 alternator cost me $27, another $10 in misc parts, and now I can swap batteries between rigs or jump start one to another without worrying about voltage and polarity. Not ot mention the Delco conversion on my MF202 required fabricating 1 bracket (20 minutes including paint) and eliminated the fire-starting wiring that was on the tractor. 4 wires later life is no hassle, and I can enjoy my beast rather than spending half the time recharging the battery.

My question is why you want to convert? A 6V system in good condition will start just about as well as a 12V system. Many times, maintenance on the electrical system gets neglected: Nice, thick battery cables designed for 6V systems get replaced with the thinner version designed for 12V systems. Connections get corroded or loosen over time. Correcting those sorts of problems is cheaper than converting and may be all that is needed.

On the other hand, there are other reasons for converting. In my case, the generator and battery were both bad so converting didn't cost more than fixing. I also had a 12V sprayer.

It's worth thinking about why before jumping into it.

• wiring diagram