6v to 12v conversion questions....

[phil fox]

So I have re-wired a few VWs (2 bugs, and 1 buggy) front to rear and they have come out GREAT.. BUT, those were cars that were already 12v cars... I am currently working on rewiring my buggy, but it is/was still 1962 6v wiring system and I am converting it to 12v... I already have the alternator, coil, starter, bulbs (headlight, taillight, blinker, etc), and a new fuse block... But, my question is.. what relays and switches need to be changed out to convert to 12 volt?? Such as headlight relays/switches, blinker relays, etc. Thanks in advance for the help...

[BL3Manx]

The starter didn't need to be changed, the 6v starter will last indefinitely on 12v and unless the new 12v starter matches the 6v flywheel, it won't work.

No switches need to be changed.

Yes change the blinker relay

If you have a 67 dimmer switch yes, you'll need to replace the relay. If you have a foot dimmer switch, there is no dimmer relay.

Change the motor in the wiper to 12v.

[phil fox]

[EVfun]

If you car had an electric gas gauge installed it will need attention before you apply 12 volts to it. A small voltage regulator can be used to adjust the voltage to what it is expecting. The stock mechanical gas gauge only needs a 12 volt light bulb.

Don't forget all the little bulbs in the speedo! They last seconds on 12 volts. The 6 volt fuse block and fuses are fine in a 12 volt conversion.
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[phil fox]

[BL3Manx]

If the fuse block that came with the harness is one of the ceramic fuse type, don't use it. Make sure it is an SAE blade type fuse block

[Q-Dog]

[BL3Manx]

My experience was that fairly often a tail light or whatever quit working and the solution was to have to remove that circuit's fuse and clean its ends and the contacts on the block.

Here is somebody else's thoughts

[Q-Dog]

Dielectric grease will solve that problem, and a lot cheaper that replacing the fuse block. Just saying. It isn't a requirement.

I am quite familiar with humidity. My buggy, and other VWs, live under an open shed in South Louisiana. Like I said, no issues with the stock fuses. I have problems with the water spray and mud from the tires soaking signal lights and taillights, but the fuses and fuse panel have never been an issue. Never.

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Brian

'69 Dune Buggy
'69 Beetle Convertible
'70 Beetle

[andk5591]

With you on that about the fuses...When I do a build, I clean the terminals and the fuses. Never had an issue. However doing a bugy for a customer and am using a universal street rod harness because I had no harness to start with and wanted to try using one.
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