Question for the electrical experts here

[ClassicTractorProfessor 5,314]

Wasn't sure where to post this, but here goes. Not Wheel Horse electrical related, but it is tractor related. 

 

Many of you know I have taken on the project of rebuilding Rodger's M since his passing. One of the things I would like to do to this tractor is a 12v conversion, partly for reliability and partly due to the cost and availability of 12 volt batteries. Now I know the easiest route would be to just retrofit it with an alternator the same way we did the little 2N, but that takes out the challenge and fun. I found this kit and what I'm wanting to do is change the original generator over to 12 volts, keeping the original look but with the added convenience of 12 volt over 6. 

 

I'm not much of an expert with these kinds of things, I do know I will have to change the regulator out in favor of a 12 volt unit. Would just any 12 volt regulator work? I found this one and my limited knowledge seems to think that it will. In the description it says will work with 12 volt positive or negative ground??? That's another thing I'm stuck on...I know the original 6v system was positive ground, will I need to keep it that way with the 12 volt or switch it to negative, and how would a guy go about doing that

 

• 12 Volt Regulator (Base Mount)

 

 

12 Volt Regulator (base mount)

In Stock

At our Michigan warehouse

ABC185

$32.95

[ebinmaine 67,292]

[oliver2-44 9,696]

Those large slotted screws that hold the existing generator stationary coils in can be a bear to remove.  Since your replacing the existing coils, maybe soak the whole thing in diesel for a week.  Then pull out you hammer impact driver, good luck. 

They were hard to break loose on those 2N's and 9N's at the ford tractor shop, and that was almost 50 years ago.  This is one of those times where you might appreciate the tractor previously having an oil leak in that area!

[953 nut 55,092]

8 hours ago, HandyProfessor said:

.I know the original 6v system was positive ground, will I need to keep it that way with the 12 volt or switch it to negative, and how would a guy go about doing that

If the starter on your tractor is anything like older Ford automotive starters it is not at all polarity sensitive, it will spin in the same direction regardless of the battery polarity.