boosting 6v with a 12 volt battery

[we@nb]

Having trouble with starting my oc 46 in this cold weather , very sluggish turover . In a fit of desperation the other day I boosted with 12 volts . Turned over much more briskly and started. I know the starter can take 12 v but I am wondering about what else could be  damaged if I continue the practise.

[hotratz]

If you're just occasionally jumping with a 12 volt battery you probably won't hurt anything. If you want to convert to 12 volts then you'll want to upgrade light bulbs or other loads that are rated @ 6 volts. Use a alternator with internal regulation and you won't have to upgrade the charging system.  Check my signature for the link to a good alternator conversion.

[we@nb]

thanks ,Cheers

[Jack in NB]

That was Std Op procedure with Dad's OC-3, and mine in the early days until I switched over to a 12 v with the self regulating self energizing 37 amp delco alternator with the changes Hotratz describes. A local shop installed the self energizing feature.

There is a risk of damaging the 6v battery if you cable the 12 v booster directly onto the 6 v posts without the starter energized. Leaving the booster connected after start-up can cook the generator regulator, and maybe any other electrics you have on yours.

My approach - got in position to reach both the starter switch and the hot terminal on the starter motor. Dunno if yours has both points in easy reach! Connect the booster neg to a good ground, hit the starter switch, then press the positive end from the booster directly onto the starter post, removing on start. Had to be careful not to hit the cable end on ground - interesting fireworks!

This assumes the starter terminal is a single post, as the OC-3 setup. If yours has a solenoid, you can still contact the booster to the battery lug on the solenoid.