What are the benefits of going from 6 to 12 volts?

[Brad]

I'm keeping things pretty much stock...no radio or other electronics in the plans. Is there a benefit to converting from 6 to 12 volts?

[scoutpilot]

12 volt parts are more abundant and the major components, alternator, starter, battery, bulbs are cheaper (usually). Wire gauge is smaller throughout the entire system. It would be wee to re-wire completely in such a conversion.
6 volt systems, when properly maintained (clean ground and hot connections, correct size wire and cables) are just as reliable as 12 volt. One caveat. The generator won't charge until you reach 750-800 RPM.I don't recommend this for a steady idle. Parts can be expensive. Best to locate a starter and generator shop that still does six volt. If your community has a thriving antique car club, this shouldn't be all that difficult. I have both in a couple of 2A's No problems with either.

[Ryan_M]

My 3A is stock 6 volt and my M38 is bubbafied 12v. Aside from the "feel" of the M38 turning over faster on start-up I really can't tell the difference. The 6V system in my 3A has never let me down.

[garage gnome]

I have one 6 volt and one 12 volt. Not much of a difference other than cranking speed. If everything is in good working order, it will be fine. My green jeep was so original, I decided to leave it. I converted my red jeep because I thought 12v was better until I got my green jeep.

[Brad]

Thanks for the input! Being in the San Diego area I should be able to find a place to go through the starter and generator. Converting sounds like a lot of work and modifications.

[Jeff_M]

With proper maintenance (mainly good clean connections) your 6v system should serve you well.  I'd say stick with it. 

[1955CJ-5]

I'd stick with it...both my 3a and -5 have the 6 volt systems.

About the only downside is finding someone who can give you a jump-start.....

But that is why there is a hand-crank option

[PaulS]

Mine is 12V, and I was considering converting it back to 6V... (I have a generator, but it probably needs rebuilding.)  I suspect I'll leave it at 12 V, though.

My 1949 tractor is still 6v, and the nice thing about it compared to the CJ3A is that you CAN jump start it with 12 V if you do it right, and if the 6V battery has enough juice to power the ignition if it doesn't have to turn the starter.  You just apply the 12 V direct to the starter--past the solenoid.  With the solenoid open, the VR and generator never see the boosting 12V.  I've done this several times and it works surprisingly well--even a very low battery can give enough spark *if* it doesn't have to spin a starter at the same time!  I'm thinking it would be difficult to do this on a stock 3A starter, without a solenoid...

-Paul

[Carls_jeep]

The advantages are 12v has brighter headlights (halogen), lower amps through the system, if you want a winch 12v is best, no need to rework the starter as it works fine on 12v, it's easier to find a 12v battery and someone to give you a jump if you need it.

Disadvantage is you will have to make or buy an alternator mount and do some rewiring.