generator to alternator conversion

Well I can see that there have been a number of posts about this over the years, but none of the other ones really answer my questions.

I have a 1965 VW Type 1 (1200cc engine) and I am upgrading it from 6v to 12v, replacing all the normal things (generator with alternator, oil stand, coil, flasher relay, etc) plus the entire wiring harness. I've been plagued with electrical problems over the last 6 years and I am tried of it. I have a few questions about how to do this.

-When I replace my fuel pump with the "alternator style" pump, does it matter what year? Like is it okay if it is a 1600cc 1973 pump? There aren't any 1965 alternator pumps for sale, obviously, but I wonder if the bigger engine size for which those pumps were designed matters to the amount of fuel that gets pumped into the carb. Can I basically use any pump that will screw into it and leave room for the alternator? I know i need to replace the pushrod.

-Do I need to replace the distributor? It doesn't seem like it.

-How do i re-wire my car for an alternator? I know that the wiring setup for the engine compartment, even when i replace it with a brand new one, will be configured for a generator. The regulator is mounted on top of the generator in my current setup, not under the back seat like it was in later models, and as a result I can't find any info online about doing it this way.

Thanks for your help everyone!

Reply to
ZombieSlayerTom
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You only have to replace the pump if it actually interferes with the carb; yours may not. Yes, you can use any pump.

The wiring is easier on your car. Simply connect both heavy Red wires which were on the regulator to the big B+ post on the alternator. Then connect the skinny Blu wire which was on Term #61 of the regulator to the D+ spade terminal on the alternator.

Don't forget to replace the speedo bulbs (and all others) with 12V bulbs.

See the 6V/12V Conversion article on my web site. There is also basic alternator info in the Electrical section.

Speedy Jim

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Reply to
Speedy Jim

I've heard you can change the gear on the 12 v. starter motor to a larger "6 volt" gear. true? Happy Holidaze Speedy Jim. thanks for all the help in the past. g.

Reply to
A Veteran

It's possible, but I don't know where you can get the parts...

Jim

Reply to
Speedy Jim

Fuel pumps for the alternator take the shorter pushrod IIRC.

I have done several conversions to 12V and have seen a few issues only on some. One Beetle I had to change the ign switch since it started smoking after receiving the 12V through it. The most difficult thing, after the gen or alt install, is the wiper motor.

Also I needed the top of a 30PICT-1 to fit over the 28PICT carb.

The starter I can leave untouched and wiper motor if you want turbo speed! lol

A >> Well I can see that there have been a number of posts about this over

Reply to
dave AKA vwdoc1

Bug Pack makes a 6 volt variable speed power reducer for 6 volt wiper motors with 12v conversion. I have one on my 66 and the variable speed wipers are nice and the next best thing to intermittent wipers.

Tony

Reply to
Anthony W

Regarding the carburator, on my car I needed a spacer plate under the carb. It adds about 1/4 of an inch to the height of the intake. The carb barely clears the alternator. (40 hp stock engine, Pict H30/31) KWW

Reply to
Kirk

I can't recall having that problem with the 1963 Beetle that I converted over. I think I used the alternator on that one too. I forget more and more lately! Maybe I used a generator.

----- Original Message ----- From: "Kirk"

Reply to
dave AKA vwdoc1

The 6 volt starter gear has a larger shaft diameter than the 12 volt starter. I think it would be possible to convert a 12 volt starter to a 6 volt ring gear but you would have to put a sleeve bushing in the 6 volt starter gear to match the 12 volt starter shaft. You would have to put a

6/12 volt reducer bush>
Reply to
Bugger

Reply to
Bugger

IMHO the only rational way to do it. Not The Right Way(TM), but 6V starter is very durable motor and will last many years if not overheated.

I've a -63 KG and it was (by PPO) converted to 12 volts in 1992, I changed the engine last summer and as the new engine had 12V flywheel, I had to change the starter too. Easier to replace than flywheel with re-balancing everything etc.. ;)

So 14 years of regular usage (in summer, Jan surely has told about Finnish weather...) and nothing wrong so far, so I'd say it will last as long as any

12V starter if not overheated.

Tuomas

Reply to
Tuomas Hosia

Finnish weather.. hmm... nope, don't miss it at all :D I hear you didn't even get snow this christmas.

Jan

Reply to
Jan Andersson

Reply to
Kirk

Jan Andersson kirjoitteli seuraavaa:

(OT, sorry ... local weather report) ...

I wouldn't either. ;)

But so far no other options.

Yes and not even for new years eve either. Somewhere next week, maybe.

(Very rare, I don't remember many black new years eves and I can easily remember 20 years back. A year ago there was about 10 inches snow around here and year before that 20 inches.)

Tuomas

Reply to
Tuomas Hosia

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