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On my 48 3100 235 with a 6 volt system I find when starting (I converted to a 6 volt key starter) that it would appear that the engine will turn over slowly then start quickly. Almost like there is a power surge for the starter. My dash generator gauge will show a discharge and the generator will recharge the battery. I do have an electric solenoid on top of the starter, the battery ground is at the base of the starter, and all connections are clean and tight. I assumed this setup from the same time period Chevy cars. I'm not sure if this is the typical action by these cars.

Do you have any advice or corrections?
Thank you

The cranking speed will be somewhat slower than with a 12 volt system, but it should be steady. Try cranking the engine with the ignition disabled (pull the center coil wire or disconnect a primary wire at the coil) and see if the cranking speed stays fairly steady. You should be able to crank the engine for 10-15 seconds without a noticeable slowdown. Also, check the battery voltage during cranking. It should not drop below approximately 4.5 volts. If the cranking speed slows down quickly, and/or the voltage drops below 4.5 with the engine cranking, it's possible your battery isn't up to the job at hand. Have you checked the specific gravity of the acid (assuming you're not running a sealed battery)? At full charge all the cells should be at or above 1.260 and there should not be a noticeable difference between cells.
Jerry

Thank you Jerry. I will check these out. I do have a closed battery - red top Altima. I was also concerned on my ignition switch. I opted to use a 60-66 Chevy truck switch since I could use the GM key switch and wasn't sure if when I turned the key to the ignition stop that it would provide the needed 6 volt power to the solenoid. Which is 6 volt.

Oh. And I do not have that 10-15 seconds of engine crank before a slowdown. Just a slow turnover, then nothing, followed by the roar of the engine. This is when the gauge shows charge.

Thank you

Do the voltage test during cranking, and I'll bet you either have an under-capacity battery for the demand, or a bad battery. Just because the battery is new, or in good condition, doesn't necessarily mean it has the current delivery capacity to handle a starting load. If you're below 4.5 volts or so under starting load, you need more battery.
Jerry

Thanks Jerry. I will check and let you know.