6V vs 12V Starter Solenoid

[Shoebox]

Just wondering if a 6V starter solenoid will work well with 12 volts? I have no problem buying another solenoid, just that the one that came on the car appears quite new. Thanks.

[marko39]

It should work fine and a 6volt one is designed to handle higher amps than 12volts.

[Shoebox]

Originally Posted by marko39

It should work fine and a 6volt one is designed to handle higher amps than 12volts.

That's what I had thought, just like 6V wiring can handle 12V, often it's nice to have your thoughts confirmed. Thanks Marko39.

[koates]

The voltage coil inside a 6 volt solenoid is designed to operate on 6 volts but will operate on 12 volts but will draw twice the current (amps) which is not good. This could eventually be the demise of the coil or winding. The contacts on any given type of solenoid either 6 volt or 12 volt are likely all the same. What I am saying here is that a 12 volt car should be fitted with a 12 volt solenoid. Its no different than fitting a 6 volt headlamp bulb into a 12 volt car. Regards, Kevin.

[Shoebox]

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Originally Posted by koates

The voltage coil inside a 6 volt solenoid is designed to operate on 6 volts but will operate on 12 volts but will draw twice the current (amps) which is not good. This could eventually be the demise of the coil or winding. The contacts on any given type of solenoid either 6 volt or 12 volt are likely all the same. What I am saying here is that a 12 volt car should be fitted with a 12 volt solenoid. Its no different than fitting a 6 volt headlamp bulb into a 12 volt car. Regards, Kevin.

Hey Kevin,
Thanks for the input, sounds like long term I should have a 12 volter.