6 Volt Alternators and Polarity Effects

[cbonner757]

Good morning, all. I have been looking into what is involved with changing out my 6v generator for an alternator. Fifth Avenue has a kit that sounds pretty good, and I got their literature packet. The installation requires swapping the polarity to 6v negative ground. They say most items on a car don't care what the polarity is, except some radios, some clocks and maybe some other accessories. My 51 Champion 4-door 6-cyl automatic has the anti-creep device and a clock. Has anyone else already done this, and what did you have to change or disconnect when you swapped the polarity?

Anyone using their 6v electric fuel pump they offer?

On a side note, the clock light works now but apparently not the clock. If I do get it working, has anyone else noted a serious battery drain from their clock?

Regards,
Clarence
51 Champion 4-door

[64V-K7]

6v positive ground alternators are available from other sources..


Bob Johnstone

https://www.studebaker-info.org

64 GT Hawk
55 President State Sedan
70 Avanti (R3)

[Chris Pile]

quote:6v positive ground alternators are available from other sources..

Cheaply, and that work well with minimum fuss.

Chris Pile
Editor: The Studebaker Special

http://midwaystudebakers.tripod.com/

[53k]

quote:Originally posted by cbonner757

Good morning, all. I have been looking into what is involved with changing out my 6v generator for an alternator. Fifth Avenue has a kit that sounds pretty good, and I got their literature packet. The installation requires swapping the polarity to 6v negative ground. They say most items on a car don't care what the polarity is, except some radios, some clocks and maybe some other accessories. My 51 Champion 4-door 6-cyl automatic has the anti-creep device and a clock. Has anyone else already done this, and what did you have to change or disconnect when you swapped the polarity?

Anyone using their 6v electric fuel pump they offer?

On a side note, the clock light works now but apparently not the clock. If I do get it working, has anyone else noted a serious battery drain from their clock?

A running clock will eventually run down your battery. Sometimes the clock contact points can stick shut and that can run down your battery faster. I keep a battery minder automatic charger hooked up to my cars when they aren't operating (yes, even 6-volt).



Paul Johnson, Wild and Wonderful West Virginia. '64 Daytona Wagonaire, '64 Daytona convertible, '53 Commander Starliner, Museum R-4 engine, '62 Gravely Model L, '72 Gravely Model 430

[cbonner757]

Thanks, Paul. I figured with the weak charging the 6v system would run down even faster with something like a clock constantly running.

And thanks, Chris, for the links to other 6v alternator sources, including one that does not require changing the polarity. I will make a few
sacrifices for reliable drivability but he less I have to modify the better. Probably nothing beyond the 6v alternator, 6v electric wipers and a
6v electric fuel pump.

Regards,
Clarence