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Hi Casey1108, I suppose it turns out to be personal choice. I've watched many discussions on this web site on this very topic. I'm working on an SC, too, that came to me with an alternator on it and I'm putting it back to 6 volt. I love things to remain original. For example, I'd much rather see an old truck that looks original than one made into a hot rod. Just my opinion, though. My take on the 6V-12V conversions: if you keep the wiring in good shape and keep your connections tight, 6 volt is just fine. Many people will state that 12 volt conversion will make it "start better"...whatever that really means. I suspect "starting better" means it helps overcome not having tight and bright wiring and not keeping the tractor tuned up electrically and with the fuel system. I also suspect that many teeth have been broken off of ring gears when a 12 volt battery is attached to the starter. I have no proof, though. Many people from very cold climates have praised the 12 volt conversion, but I'm still not convinced that if you keep your tractor tuned up with good wiring and tight connections, that it should make any real difference. If someone wants to argue the efficiency of charging systems, then I suppose the modern alternator does a much better job of controlling the charge and meeting electrical demands while requiring less attention from the operator. There's also the consideration that making the tractor "non-original" would make it less attractive to a collector. This may have truth, but if a potential buyer is one that wants it 12-volt, then they'll think less of the originality. A good idea is if you go to 12 volt, then keep the generator. Finally, I have to admit a personal desire to understand and conquer the generator charging system. Many people seem "scared" of them, but I think the old generators and regulators are fascinating devices...especially the older three-brush generators where you adjust the charge by moving the third brush. To me, that is simplisticly fascinating. There are a few articles about generators on this website that are wonderful to read. Link to them from Research and Info section at the left. There are also a few articles about doing conversions to 12 volt. Good luck on your decision. If you decide to go the 12 volt route, I encourage you to hold on to that generator in case you, or a potential buyer down the road, would want to put it back. RandyN (MO)
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