Conversion: 6-Volts to 12-Volts

Someone wrote regarding the conversion of a VW 6-volt electrical system to 12 volts - I know virtually nothing about this conversion, so I would want to know a little about it before I do it or have someone do it for me. I know that it will effect many components, like the wiper motor, for instance (as I recall). And I also know that there are some out there who ask, "Why do it?"

Rob responded - The conversion from 6 to 12 volts is not hard. The 6-volt wiring is thicker than the 12-volt wiring so can handle 12 volts without any changes. The fuses need to be changed to 12-volt ratings though - mostly 8 and 16 amps (the 6-volt ratings are too high).

You need to change EVERY light bulb to 12 volts including the dash lights and indicator lights (gen, oil) etc.

The regulator must be 12 volts (unless you are going to use a 12-volt alternator with internal regulator in which case the external regulator can be removed altogether).

The wiper motor will work at warp speed and overrun the auto-park feature unless you reduce it's speed. Some folks use a high-amp resistor, but this gets really hot. There's a neat little current-limiter circuit on our web site which works MUCH better. See our article on Running Your 6-Volt Wipers on 12 Volts. The circuit has only four components and can be made by anyone who can use a soldering iron.

The starter motor can stay at 6 volts - it will work very well on 12 volts, spinning the engine faster, and it won't overheat unless you crank for long periods.

The fuel tank sender might need altering too (e.g., the 12-volt sender may not fit).

"Speedy Jim" is certainly a guru with VW electrics, and his site, Speedy Jim's Home Page, has a wealth of useful information - worth a look.