Re: What Do You Think About Going From 6volts To 1

Posted by Bob M on June 04, 2003 at 11:42:32 from (165.170.128.66):

In Reply to: What Do You Think About Going From 6volts To 12v.? posted by Ron on June 03, 2003 at 09:00:20:

Ron - As others observe below there's good arguments for both sides. Here's my thoughts:

If the primary purpose of the tractor is to do work - where reliable starting and minimum maintenance is paramount - a 12 volt ALTERNATOR conversion is the only way to go! In addition to reliability, this gives you the option of installing more and brighter lights for working at night. Also it gives flexibility to swap batteries back and forth with modern tractors, trucks, cars, etc. as needed. Example - I've yet to figure out how to use my boat and my tractor at the same time. Consequently one 12 volt battery "time shares" in the boat and on my old Oliver snow pusher.

On the other hand for parade/show tractors, I like the original 6 volt systems. Here "looks" take priority over low maintenance. Keep in mind also shows, etc are generally under favorable weather conditions (warm, no rain if you're lucky!). And should a 6 volt tractor NOT start under these conditions aside perhaps from some embarrassment, it's not a big deal. Of course a 6 volt generator system is fussier about overall maintenance - not only the charging system, but also ignition, carburetion and engine mechanicals must all be in top condition for reliable starting.

A 3rd option is a hybrid: Rework the stock 6 volt generator for 12 volts. Doesn't give the idling power output or the maintenance-free performance of an alternator. But it DOES give provide the improved cranking (and lighting) performance of 12 volts. And it of course maintains cosmetic appearance of a "stock" 6 volt system.

I own several old tractors (Farmall, Oliver, MM), a couple of which I've converted 12 volts. One is my snow pusher - it must start reliably in the worst conditions of weather and it requires lots of lights when in use. My other - a Super M - came to me with high compression pistons and propane head. Even with a fresh battery, oversized cables and a new starter it was difficult for the starter to roll it on 6 volts. But it tips over and starts quick on 12 volts. Also on the Farmall an alternator tucks neatly up under the hood - you gotta bend and stoop to even tell it's been converted.

Bottom line you gotta decide based how you plan to use your tractor, and whether or not you care if it looks "original"!

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