6 volt or 12 volt

[Boss Hog]

This is something that all ways comes up , so I am starting a pole
Boss [12 volt is the only way to go] Hog

[coppersmythe]

good morning from the warm , muggy deep south . i have both , but over the years , i must say i have to fiddle with the 12 volt cubs far less . coppersmythe.............

[tmays]

Figgered Boss would chime in at some point!

[TallCoolOne58]

I like the 6 volt positive ground because...it was still common when I began working on cars, trucks and equipment. Nothing like the sound of a 6 volt starter cranking over, similar to the smell of a fresh fired shotgun shell with paper hull to me. Old memories. It allows me to have just something from the past to tinker with. It's simple, and easy to troubleshoot, but regardless, 3 things have to stay in balance- generator, voltage regulator and battery. Your starting and charging system is only as good as it's weakest link, and any weak component affects the others for a healthy charging system.

That said, a 12 volt system allows you more amperage and freedom for electrical accessories, I.e. on board tachometer, hooking up utility trailer tail lights for greater on-road safety, brighter head and tail lights etc.

[Dale Finch]

My 1st cub ('55) had been converted to 12v, so I never had to deal with generators and voltage regulators. I still am unfamiar with them! I now have 4 tractors, all 12v, mostly for consistency. I know the main problems folks have with 6v systems are connections and wire gauge, which can be dealt with fairly easily, but many wiring systems just aren't maintained well enough for good function.

So, for many folks who just want a working tractor and not a trailer queen or one that never gets rained on or dirty, 12v is probably the easiest solution.

[clodhopper]

I bought my 1950 cub all original. I rewired it cause the original wiring was shot. Cleaned up the generator brushes and commutator, cutout contacts, and installed a new ammeter. Never had a minutes trouble with it since. My point is, any electrical system that has been neglected for 69 years is going to be troublesome. Clean it up and get it back to factory specs, don't forget the ground path must be good (through the sheet metal and steel) and the voltage of your system will become irrelevant.

[Drfting1]

Personally I prefer 12v... The 53 I restored I converted to 12, capable of using sprayer when needed (not that I use it much) everything I have is 12 volt, never an issue starting her... Even used it to jumpstart my 66 Stang when I left the key on while working on it, I even have an inverter I could clamp on real quick if needed... The 59 I just picked up.. is going to be converted also, she'll be going down to Virginia when ready to the property I just got and be my little workhorse and since she's missing her lights, I'm going to put LED's temporarily all around, Then one year when I'm there permeantly, I'll go ahead and restore her and maybe put her back to 6... I'll keep all the parts I take off..So even if I don't convert back, next owner could if they wanted to

[Drfting1]

Just thought of it.... I should find the biggest round led lights to put on her as a tribute to bug-eyes lol!

[Dale Finch]

OK, how about these?!
https://www.amazon.com/TURBOSII-Approved-Headlights-Wrangler-1997-2017/dp/B015SL0MSK

[ScottyD'sdad]

As a 6 volt battery dies, I convert to 12 volts. Batteries are cheaper and last longer. I use a Denso alternator, small, and fits easily. $53, delivered. Not much more than a voltage regulator, for a 6 volt.

Ed

[Drfting1]

OK, how about these?!
https://www.amazon.com/TURBOSII-Approved-Headlights-Wrangler-1997-2017/dp/B015SL0MSK

Was actually thinking on modifying a pair of these

But actually ordered a cheap set if LED's like the one I have on the rear of my 53 to temporarily use as headlights.. I'll just paint them red

[lowgearfarm]

6 V versus 12 V: Pondering about which was best, 6V or 12V, left my mind in a muddle – mostly because of all the different criteria on which to make a decision, some of which were cited in replies to Boss Hog's vote count. For example: Which is most reliable, demanding the least attention, measured in time and money? How much is adherence to original technology worth in personal satisfaction? Or perhaps "If it ain't broke…etc."
My final overriding criteria was "go with what you got" – or- "play the cards you're dealt."

[Super A]

12 volt conversions are for quitters, unless you need it for some kind of accessory.

Al

[Slim140]

12 volt conversions are for quitters, unless you need it for some kind of accessory.

Al

Wish I would have quit a lot earlier than I did

[rockfarmer]

As much as I want to be a purist, my vote is 12 volt.