Charging question for Bob M

Next question, will 6v work on this engine setup, or is 12v required for turning it over? It is very dificult to hand crank in its current situation.

I would like to maintain the original appearance of the generator, but I am considering using an alternator to get 12v. I have heard that a 6v generator will charge at 12v, but at less current (same power output). I currently do not have lights or distributor, magneto only, so the charging system will only have to recharge from the starting draw. Can I get away with a 12v regulator inplace of the 6v?

Lastly, is there a 12v Delco generator that will fit inplace of the 6V (mounting locations and shaft length)? How much would it cost (roughly) to have my 6v converted top a 12v by an electric shop?

I want to put lights on it later, but will probably use LED bulbs since they will draw less current. I don't intend to do much night work since it is just a 'utility' tractor, not used for farming.

JG

YES when I used a 6 volt genny to charge 12 volts I replaced the VR with a 12 volt VR.

If theres no local genny shop to rebuild your exisitng case for 12 volts, check with Kenneth down there at Kenneths Classic Generator in Texas, he will buid a nice one that also looks beautiful as well as original.

John T

I have a Super M set up pretty much like yours (high compression pistons, LP head, etc). I quickly found that even with the complete starting system in “like new” condition it was it difficult to crank with the stock, 6 volt setup. However with a 12 volt battery it spins up and starts very nicely. So my advice here would be to go to with 12 volts.

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Regarding the existing 6 volt generator, yes you can get 12 volts out of it. However the output will be less and it will need to spin faster than normal before it begins to charge. Also the generator will tend to get hot if you run it for long periods - which will shorten it’s life.

Note also that if you install a 12 volt regulator you still risk burning out the generator due to overload unless the regulator is readjusted to match the current characteristics of the original generator.

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From my perspective a 12 volt alternator conversion is the best solution from a cost, efficiency and maintenance standpoint (that’s what’s mine has). And you can easily hide an alternator up under the hood on an M – you can only tell it’s there by getting down on your knees and peeking up under the hood.

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However if you are a stickler for originality want a generator here’s a couple options:

1 – Get the stock generator reworked to 12 volts at your starter/alternator shop. Cost is probably same as a stock 6 volt generator rebuild - about $100 - $125 or so.

2 – Replace the generator with a 12 volt one from an IHC diesel of the same era (MD, WD-6, WD-9, etc). By swapping pulleys will it look (and I believe will fit) same the original generator.

Of course either of the above requires a new voltage regulator too – figure another $40 or so for that.

Hope this helps...