UTS 12 volt conversion

Mark Poss · Aug 4, 2023

I just got an 1948 UTS and would like to convert it to 12 volt. I was planning on taking the generator to my local starter and generator shop to have it converted to 12 volt and pick up a 12 volt coil. What type of coil should I get? One with internal resistor? Im not very good with electrical. I know I need to replace the light bulbs with 12 volt ones. Will the 12 volt battery be positive ground still or negative ground? Can someone post a wiring diagram for the 12 volt conversion for me to follow? Thanks for any help, Mark

rustred · Aug 4, 2023

Most just install an alternator. Just saying. Cheaper. Your call.

Mark Poss · Aug 4, 2023

I would like to keep it original looking

J Hamilton · Aug 4, 2023

If the coil you currently have is good, all you need is a resistor for it. If you need or want a new coil, I would get one that does not require an external resistor.

Rich'sToys · Aug 4, 2023

To answer your original question--if you keep the generator, it would most likely remain positive ground. An alternator conversion would be negative ground.

Ill John · Aug 5, 2023

I had my generator rebuilt into a 12v on my ZAS/LP, it is very expensive. I also installed a new voltage regulator which is for negative ground, you can get that voltage regulator in either + or- ground. I can send you both the generator and alternator diagrams if you'll send me an email.
I don't know how to put pictures on here

rvirgil_KS · Aug 5, 2023

1. Converting to alternator with built in regulator would be much cheaper and more dependable. Your problem will not be with generator but in finding a dependable regulator. But if you want to stay original that is your call.

2. You do not need a diagram to change to 12 volt generator unless you also change to negative ground. 6 and 12 volt generators wire the same except for added resistor with 6 volt coil. A generator will work equally well either polarity. Just make sure you have a regulator that matches your ground polarity and polarize the generator before you start the engine the first time.

3. An IC14SB NAPA coil or equivalent would eliminate the need for a resistor

4. To change to negative ground, reverse connections on coil and ammeter and connect battery negative ground. Starter, lights, and ignition work either polarity.

Here are a couple of old diagrams that may help

J.Wondergem · Aug 5, 2023

(quoted from post at 21:28:40 08/04/23) I would like to keep it original looking

You can get a alternator built in a generator case. Then you have the best of both worlds.

Ill John · Aug 5, 2023

never heard of that, I'll have to ask my rebuilder Thanks

J.Wondergem · Aug 6, 2023

(quoted from post at 17:40:18 08/05/23) never heard of that, I'll have to ask my rebuilder Thanks

UTS 12 volt conversion

Mark Poss

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rustred

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Mark Poss

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J Hamilton

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Rich'sToys

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Ill John

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rvirgil_KS

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J.Wondergem

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Ill John

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J.Wondergem

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