Old Car Electrical

There are several upgrades that you can add to make your classic car or truck a little more modern.

Read: Add Turn Signals To An Old Car

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6 Volt to 12 Volt Conversion

You may consider upgrading to a 12 volt system if you're adding power accessories such as an aftermarket radio and amplifier, electric cooling fan, power windows or power seats, halogen headlights, or LED tail lights. If not, a 6-volt system in good shape should continue getting the job done.

Read: Convert 6-Volt Car To 12-Volts

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One-wire alternators are popular when converting an old car or truck from 6-volts to 12-volts. They can also be used to replace a generator in an old car or truck.

Read: Install A One-Wire Alternator

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Points vs Electronic Ignition

A large majority of classic cars have a points/condenser ignition system, which is easy to understand and diagnose. The contact breaker is mechanically operated by an engine-driven cam.

Read: Old Car Ignition

When in proper working order, a points ignition system works very well and should give 10,000 to 15,000 miles of service. For a classic car that gets driven a 1,000 miles a year, that's a pretty trouble-free system. Yet, some owners choose to convert to a non-stock electronic ignition system.

Read: Points vs Electronic Ignition

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Positive Ground Cars

Electricity in a car travels in a circle. Power leaves the battery from one terminal, passes through components (lights, horn, coil, etc.) and ends up back to the battery on the opposite terminal. It doesn't care which way it goes.