How To Convert 6V Starter to 12V

[19Fordy]

Found this Fordbarn debate about running 6V starter on 12V.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=55549

[4t8v8]

The reason I converted my starter to 12V was broken Bendix springs and it hit so hard it moved the ring gear. Put a new ring gear on when I converted and problems solved.

[flatheadmurre]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

The OEM Bendix spring on my 1949-53 Ford/Merc 6 volt
starter weighs 7.9 0z. (223.9 grams)

What does the 12V Bendix spring weigh?
Here's a comparison photo of two different Bendix starter springs. looks like the one on the right is "thinner".
Is the one on the left for a Model T?
Here's a 12V starter that Macs sells. Can this be used when converting to 12 volts as it appears to have a different style starter drive mechanism?
Will this starter interchange with the old style 1949-53 starter AND fit the 49-53 flywheel?
Did starters from 1955 onward used a different Bendix?
I am not trying to beat a dead horse, just curious.
http://www.macsautoparts.com/ford_tr...2-volt-v8.html

That new style with a freewheeling function and rubber in it is just to many tiny bits made by who knows and have no chance of working for a longer period of time in the dust and dirt...keep it simple...the fewer moving parts the better...just my 2c..

[jimvette59]

If the engine starts properly and the starter isn't spun repeatedly the starter doesn't care what voltage it gets. JMHO.

[cederholm]

Awesome thread! Is there a similar one on converting a 6V gen to 12V?

[JSeery]

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Originally Posted by cederholm

Awesome thread! Is there a similar one on converting a 6V gen to 12V?

There have been past threads on generator conversions (really just upping the output), but they are only somewhat successful. As the output voltage goes up, the total amperage output is decreased. If lowered total amperage will work in your application then you can do it.