12 volt WD conversion

[Rifman]

Hello,
I own a Wd Allis with a 6 volt electrical system. I am interested in converting to 12 volts. Does anyone know where I can find detailed instructions on doing this? Is it a tough process? Will I need lots of expensive and custom parts? I really want to be able to jump start the tractor with my pickup, and 12 volts is the way to go for that. Thanks in advance.
 

[old]

Its not all that hard to do. You need a 12 volt battery, a ballast resister or true 12 volt coil. An alternator one from a 1980 Chev. pick-up works well and if you get one for a plain Jane truck will cost around $40. Then you need the plug for the alternator and then wire it up. I can also explain how to wire it. Total cost will be less then $100. I do them all the time and for me its easy but I've done probably 50 in the last 10 years
Hobby farm

 

[Clay in MI]

I've done a few. Here's a link to a webpage to follow and you can also search this site for lots more information.
Duey Schutters webpage

 

[Kentb of SWMO]

You can use the pulley from the 6 volt generator on the 12 volt alternator. Both use the same 17 MM shaft. The generator will have a key and the pulley a keyway but you do not need this on the alternator if you install the pulley with an impact wrench.

Kent
 

[Mike in Ohio]

It is not hard but a little time consuming for those of us who don't do it every day. First thing is to print out the diagram from the link to dueys web site posted below, have that next to you all the time. Get the 10si delco alternator that old suggests. Worst part may be making the generator bracket work with the alternator.The pulley should switch over with no problem. If you get stuck come back and someone will help pretty quick. Also you will have to get 12 volt light bulbs and change from negative ground to positive. Our WD45 had already been converted but I've done a B and a CA. Also on our CA I got the 12 volt coil at the local napa store, They had it in stock. That saves messing with the resister in the coil line, it wasn't that expensive but that is up to you. You'll be glad you did the conversion. Good luck, Mike
 

[Mike in Ohio]

It is not hard but a little time consuming for those of us who don't do it every day. First thing is to print out the diagram from the link to dueys web site posted below, have that next to you all the time. Get the 10si delco alternator that old suggests. Worst part may be making the generator bracket work with the alternator.The pulley should switch over with no problem. If you get stuck come back and someone will help pretty quick. Also you will have to get 12 volt light bulbs and change from negative ground to positive. Our WD45 had already been converted but I've done a B and a CA. Also on our CA I got the 12 volt coil at the local napa store, They had it in stock. That saves messing with the resister in the coil line, it wasn't that expensive but that is up to you. You'll be glad you did the conversion. Good luck, Mike
 

[Edpap]

Hello,
Mike and Old are right but I know when I change them over I usally have to put a diode in the keyed alt power wire or the tractor won't shut off. some guys have told me that if you put a light bulb in line it will work too but I have never tried it.
Good luck Ed
abcrepairparts

 

[John (C-IL)]

You can do it in a couple of hours if you spend the $300 to get a totally complete kit from Steve Barbato at B&B in New Jersey. I bought one of his kits last December and will never try to do it myself again. He can also supply what you need to bring your 6 volt system up to snuf.
 

[Rusty, mn]

don"t forget about the starter.
 

[Jim Guarino Agri-Services]

If you use the commonly available 63 amp model, you should use at least 8 gauge wires to the ammeter. There is a conversion plug to convert an automotive alternator to be self-energizing.
Agri Services