Fixed - 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Morning fellow Barn-ites.
I am slowly doing more repairs to my '29 'A' and I just received a new dash panel to allow my restored Pop-Out to finally be installed. My next question, it has the normal 20-0-20 Ammeter and I have heard that for ones that have undergone the conversion to 12v to use the 30-0-30.

I have noticed that when I accelerate I 'bury' the needle on the 20a charge side. Should I invest in the 30-0-30 from the normal suppliers or should I go the Westach line.

Thanks!

Dave

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Generator or alternator?

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Alternator

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Use the 30 amp ammeter with an alternator. Also install a voltmeter in addition to the ammeter. The alternator will stop charging when the battery gets fully charged at about 14 volts. At that point the ammeter will read zero and the voltmeter will read about 14 volts.

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

any suggestions on the volt meter get the one from the typical suppliers with the bracket? I will get the 30-0-30 meter.

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

https://www.speedwaymotors.com/AutoM...ch,113373.html

Make sure it fits the bracket available from the suppliers.

Here is the bracket: https://modelastore.com/accessories/...roduct_id=4872

There is room for a second gauge. Berts has temperature and oil pressure gauges.

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

I use a Volt Meter instead of amp gauge, fits in same hole.

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Provide a path for half of the current to go around the ammeter. The photo shows what I did in my '32 where there is plenty of room behind the dash. The loop in the wire is to make the resistance equal to the internal resistance of the ammeter. In a Model A maybe run a second wire (10 gauge, assuming that is what is currently going between the alternator and the ammeter) from the output of the alternator and connect it to the to the other side of the ammeter. Now all you need to do is remember the reading is half of the actual.

Charlie Stephens

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

This will fit in the stock ammeter hole, available from Amazon
Autometer #2356 . It’s a 1.5 inch gauge.

Re: 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

ok I got the 30-0-30 Ammeter from the normal supplier. Also had an issue Yesterday when it would not start, new battery, checked fuse. just for giggles, removed the old 20-0-20 meter out and put the new 30-0-30 in, and boom, it started. so it appears it was a faulty ammeter.

Now to continue getting the new wiring harness installed.

Re: Fixed - 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

It started with a boom? Check for fuel leaking into the muffler.

Re: Fixed - 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

nah no boom, more of "it started". I would hope no boom!

I just want to thank everyone here at the Barn for all the help, insight and information, it is all very helpful!, that and the Les Andrews bible :)

Re: Fixed - 1929 Model A With 12v Conversion
 

Thanks for the update.