Super A electrical system

[jeffgreef]

My 1950 Super A (which I just got) had the generator replaced with a 6 volt alternator, and still has a 6 volt battery.

Two problems- first, the previous owner said that you have to disconnect the battery when not in use or else it drains. When started, I don't see the amp meter move at all. So I don't know if it is charging- I've started it 6 times or so since I got it yesterday, probably run the battery down soon if it isn't charging. Ideas on why the battery drains and why the amp meter shows nothing?

Second, the starter motor just barely turns it over. Starts pretty easy, but the motor turns it just barely enough to get it to fire. Previous owner said he thought the starter motor itself was having problems, I wondered if it was the battery. He trickle charged the battery and put a volt meter on it, said it was making over 6 volts. Battery is 2-3 years old but has not been used regularly. Should I replace the starter motor? I plan to do a 12 volt conversion.

Thanks

 

[GPintheMitten]

I don't think you have proven that the starter is bad. Unless someone can describe a proper test for the starter I wouldn't replace it. It could be the battery and charging system.

I think it depends on how soon you need the tractor and how soon you are going to convert it to 12 volt.

It could be once you apply 12 volts from a good battery, the starter will spin quite fast compared to what it is now.

 

[GPintheMitten]

Maybe someone else knows, what would happen if you put in a 12 volt battery as a test for the starter

 

[aczlan]

Maybe someone else knows, what would happen if you put in a 12 volt battery as a test for the starter

From what I have read, the only risk is the coil, gauges and other such stuff getting fried from too much voltage.

Aaron Z

 

[DJ54]

A lot has to do with the size of the battery cables. If they are like 4 ga., like on a car, they aren't big enough. Should be at least 1/0 gauge. With the proper sized cables, you'd think it is a 12V system.

I've never ordered from this place, but after having a set made at NAPA, and them being pretty pricey, I decided to see if a person could find somewhere more economical. Found this place in Florida, and price's seem really reasonable @$4.59 per foot. You also have choice of end lugs, and color of cable sheath. https://tinnedmarinewire.com/wire/i..._id=82&zenid=5e14146bff87f244a7708199b6eaa9bf

If it's draining the battery over a short period of time, I'd have to guess the diode(s) are out of the alternator. If it were still a generator, then normally the voltage regulator points will stick, and discharge the battery.

I guess it depends on if you want to keep it to a 6V system, but you can check and see if you have a local starter/generator rebuild shop in the area, they should be able to replace the diode(s) fairly reasonable.

If you decide to go with 12V, you can still use that starter with no mods. Just don't grind on it for a period of time, getting it hot. If it's tuned properly, it should start after 3-4 revolutions.

 

[Looking4new]

You can run a 6 volt starter off a 12 volt battery. I did with my C. You just cannot grind the starter over for long or you will cook it. The 6 volt starter will fly with 12 volts going into it. A properly tuned Farmall motor will start after 1/4 revolution of the crankshaft. When there was little kids at home, I used to start mine ONLY on the handcrank. The starter was in the back seat of my car, and a plate over the hole in the block to keep dirt out.