12-volts electrical system conversion

FMS-KS · Oct 7, 2008

I am considering changing the electrical system on a 1941 Farmall M from the original 6-volt to a 12-volt system.

Have any of you used the kit from this post?
If so, is it necessary to change much or is most
everything supplied except the new 12-volt battery?

Will the Alternator fit under the hood?
Will a new fanbelt be needed?

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

rustyfarmall · Oct 8, 2008

If the original 6 volt system is in good, functional condition, there is no need for the 12 volt conversion. Fix up what you have, make sure the battery cables are 1 guage or even better would be 0 guage, and you and the tractor will both be happy.

mkirsch · Oct 8, 2008

Not sure what you're talking about, there is no kit referenced in your post.

The one so-called kit I've had experience with consisted of an overpriced 1-wire alternator and a single photocopied sheet of so-called instructions. The instructions pretty much said "install the alternator and wire it up."

We had to figure out the wiring. We had to fabricate a mounting bracket.

Usually it's a Delco 10si alternator, and it will fit under the hood if you are careful about fabricating the mounting bracket.

Janicholson · Oct 8, 2008

I agree with Rusty, The 6V will make it purr with good cables, and a tuneup.
Bob M wiring diagrams and info will step you through the process. Use the search for box, and find his diagrams. ( I would post them, but I am on a lab conputer). JimN

Hayfarmer · Oct 8, 2008

I have converted a couple tractors including a SMTA to 12 volts and would not go back to 6. I use one in the winter to plow snow, a JD430 and like to have lights. 12 volt ones are so much easier to find, plus the tractor always starts. The other tractor I use on a baler and need lights there also. Have had great success with both. If you use Bob Ms diagram in archives and a standard Delco 3 wire alternator it should work fine. Just turn the original mounting bracket upside down and drill out the front hole a bit. You will need a different belt. Get the smallest pulley you can find for it. They other guys are right about the 6 volts working if the right cables are used, just depends upon what the tractor is used for and if you want to stay original.

Dellbertt · Oct 8, 2008

If it has a magneto I would definately leave it 6v.

GA Dave · Oct 8, 2008

I changed a IH 240 Utility from 6 to 12 volts using this link. Worked great. David..........http://www.ytmag.com/articles/artint131.htm

12-volts electrical system conversion

FMS-KS

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rustyfarmall

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mkirsch

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Janicholson

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Hayfarmer

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Dellbertt

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GA Dave

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