How to tell 6V from 12V system

C

calebpalmer86

Active member
I’m in the infantile stages of getting my inherited 1950 Cub back in the dirt. In reading about the projects that I need to tackle with my new tractor, I’ve learned that there are two voltage systems. I’m assuming that my 1950 came with 6V being standard. The problem is that I’m not sure if my Grandfather ever converted it over to a 12V system or not. There isn’t a battery on the tractor to look at. What is another “easy” way that a novice (at best) can tell what he’s working with. I don’t want to try a standard 12V battery and do any damage. Thanks in advance!
 
Does it have a generator or alternator? If it has a generator there should be an oval tag that says 6V or 12V. Alternators can be 6V or 12V as well but 6V are not as common. Look at the wire going to the coil and see if there is a ceramic block in the wire, that’s a voltage reducer if the 6V coil was left on it. Coils are usually marked 6V or 12V as well.

Post some pictures and we’ll try and help you sort it out.

Remember, if it’s 6V it has a positive ground
 
if it is a 1950 the metal id tag on the generator from the factory would be painted black, if the voltage regulator is mounted on top of the generator it is 6 volt for sure and it is POSITIVE ground, what is the serial # ?
 
I’m embarrassed to say that I don’t know how to tell if it has a generator or alternator. This is my first attempt at any “real” mechanical work other than general car maintenance. I have some pictures of the tractor. What would you need to see exactly? The serial number has been painted over, so I don’t have it. I was finally able to lock down the year using some other numbers and specifics about the tractor. It looks like he changed the coil out at some point. Not sure if that makes a difference..
Thanks a lot
 
From TM Tractor, the descriptions for the leads to the starters;
6V lead to the starter is 2 gauge about 1/4" diameter, however I think my original is closer to 00 gauge - 3/8" diameter.
12V lead is 4 gauge, about 3/16" diameter, which sounds about right.
 
That gray piece just below the coil is a ballast resister. It's used to drop 12 volts down to around 6 volts. And used with a 6 volt coil when the tractor has been converted to 12 volts.
 
You have enough posts now that you can view or download the Parts Catalog and Operator's Manual for your Cub. In the upper left corner of the page, click on Quick Links. Then click on PDF Manuals. Next, click on Farmall Cub. That will get you access to manuals that will help you understand what you have, what's missing and how to go about fixing it.
 
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