1955 Truck - 6V Blues

[Virginian]

Thanks to all the folks on the site for helping me understand some things about my new project - a 1955 pickup with a V8/3spd OD. This is my first Studebaker, and I'm working through a number of new things.

Previous owner sent the truck to me with a 12V battery in it; I called him to ask him if he had converted the system from a 6V (which I thought was the system in 1955?), he said "oh, I just stuck an old battery I had around the house in it."

I'm about to get into the restoration; what do you think the problems will be that I'll find? Is it worth trying to put a 6V battery in it, or are most all the electrical parts fried?

Also, I'm in Carlisle, PA, and look forward to driving to Lancaster this fall if I can get some things running; any suggestions on parts suppliers in the Pennsylvania area - body/sheet metal and engine/trans?

Thanks,
Jim

thanks,
Jim

[N8N]

just don't turn anything on, especially lights, until you can get a proper 6V battery. The starter, generator, etc. are probably fine.

nate

--
55 Commander Starlight

http://members.cox.net/njnagel

[DEEPNHOCK]

Since you used the term restoration, then putting a 6V battery back in is part of the process.
If you want to keep your truck 'stock' then the 'correct' parts need to be installed.

Now, if you want to modify your truck, then the game plan can shift a bit.
There are a lot of people who add a 12v battery and just run 12v to the starter. The ammeter doesn't care. The water temp gauge is manual. You can add a voltage reducer to run the fuel sender. You can change the bulbs all to 12 v. Add a 12v generator or alternator w/regulator...re-wire it a little..
It's a bit of work, but it can be done.
But...
There is also a battery sold in the aftermarket that has 12v capapbility and it has a 6v terminal on top also.
You can run the 12v to the starter and leave everything else 6V.
But now you are getting complicated, and you will have to remember all those changes.
Studebaker built 6V cars and trucks for over 50 years.
They had 6v systems down pretty well.
Why change it if it is working OK?
Your truck...your choice.
Just study up on the alternatives/consequences first.
Hope the info helps.
Jeff[8D]

[mapman]

There are some good threads on here about 6v systems and problems to look for. Like Jeff said, they work very well when correct (as do 12v systems). Be sure you have the correct gauge battery cables and that the ground is good all the way to the starter. 6v requires heavier cables. I like to use 00 gauge with soldered ends. You won't be disappointed once you get it together right. It is generally easier to put it the way it was originally than to modify it.
Rob

[Chris Pile]

On my '49 I installed a 6 volt positive ground gel battery (expensive, but worth it), and an aftermarket GM 1 wire alternator. They are easy to install on Champion engines, probably not too tough on a V8.
Adding the alternator keeps your headlights bright when idling at a stoplight!
They are also cheap, and no more polarizing the regulator!
I can send you the info, or post it here if you like.

Chris Pile
StudeFolk Manager

http://tiny.cc/RYqAK

[DEEPNHOCK]

Chris..
'Splain to me how the 6v battery pos ground battery and the 12v alternator work together...
Curious minds need to know[8)]
Jeff[8D]

quote:Originally posted by Chris Pile

On my '49 I installed a 6 volt positive ground gel battery (expensive, but worth it), and an aftermarket GM 1 wire alternator. They are easy to install on Champion engines, probably not too tough on a V8.
Adding the alternator keeps your headlights bright when idling at a stoplight!
They are also cheap, and no more polarizing the regulator!
I can send you the info, or post it here if you like.

Chris Pile
StudeFolk Manager

http://tiny.cc/RYqAK

[PackardV8]

The main thing is to remember millions of Studebakers with the OEM 6-volt system have driven millions of miles including starting in harsh winter cold. There is no operational necessity to change it to 12-volt. If all the components and wiring are to spec, even the 224"/259" V8 will start every time on 6-volts.

FWIW, I've driven a '55 E12 224" V8 for twenty-five years with the 6-volt system. Keep the connections clean and the tune-up fresh and you'll be fine.

thnx, jack vines

PackardV8

[N8N]

There are 6V regulators available for the Delco 10SI, I assume that's what he's referring to.

nate

--
55 Commander Starlight

http://members.cox.net/njnagel

[Chris Pile]

quote:Chris..'Splain to me how the 6v battery pos ground battery and the 12v alternator work together...Curious minds need to know[8)]
Jeff[8D][/b][/navy]

Jeff, you assumed I meant 12 volt, but I meant to say 6 volt positive ground alternator. At least I said "aftermarket".

Chris Pile
StudeFolk Manager

http://tiny.cc/RYqAK

[DEEPNHOCK]

I wasn't being picky.
I just didn't know and wanted to learn something.
I haven't seen a 6V pos ground alternator/regulator before.
Ya learn somethin' new every day[]
Jeff[8D]

quote:Originally posted by Chris Pile
Jeff, you assumed I meant 12 volt, but I meant to say 6 volt positive ground alternator. At least I said "aftermarket".

[fstst56]

I've had plenty of 6-volt studebakers. Remember, this is the Studebaker DRIVER'S Club. It's not any fun getting out of church on an "Artic" Sunday and your Stude V-8 just won't start. Guess what, you're stranded! Even at church. Maybe I should find another church. Anyway, growing up in the farm equipment business, we've been installing 8-volt batteries for decades now with no problems. I hate to even bring this up. People get so worked up over 8-volt batteries and I don't know why. They all say "Well, if it's all tuned up right 6-volt systems are no problem. Yeah, right. Been there, done that. I remeber reading in Hemmings years ago about a guy that was restoring a Caddilac. He wrote in telling that the bulbs said 6-8 volt and he wondered why. The tec from Hemmings answered that they could be used with a 6 volt or an 8 volt system. On farm equipment, we would put in an 8-volt battery and one of our mechanics would set the regulator to charge accordingly. Presently, I have a '53 Coupe. I purchased an 8 volt Delco style alternator with a one wire hook-up from a local rebuilder. I changed it from a positive ground to a negative ground. Just remember that your ammeter will read in reverse unless you go under the dash and switch the wiring. You can get 8 volt "group 1" batteries at any farm store like Rural King, Tractor Supply, etc. NAPA can probably get them, just might not keep them in stock. It sure is nice not having to worry about hard starting in cold weather or vapor lock in warmer weather. The 8 volt battery will crank the engine about like a 12 volt. Eventaully you may have to replace the starter but so far I've never had to yet. Been doing this now for several decades!

[vegas paul]

Randy Rundle at 5th Avenue Auto Parts makes the 6V alternator with integral regulator. I've heard good things about it and as Chris says, you can keep everything 6V while still getting good charging at idle. Randy also stocks everything you need for a 12V conversion including a very good "how to" guide.

Las Vegas, NV - Stop by, coffee's on!
'51 Champion Business Coupe G899965 10G-Q4-1434