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Apr 26th, 2026 | | AD Chevy Trucks  Over 6,000 pictures Brad Allen has an awesome collection of Chevrolet factory pictures that he has set up from film strips. Check them out!
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| | | | Joined: Dec 2008 Posts: 75 Wrench Fetcher | | Wrench Fetcher Joined: Dec 2008 Posts: 75 | I am rather new to trucks, I normally tinker with old boats (mostly fiberglassics) So my question to every one is a 2 part question, How do I determine if my new truck is indeed a 6 volt and if so how can I change it to a 12 volt system? Is this very labor intensive? Will I need to change the alternator and generator as well?
If I do choose to keep it a 6 volt system then does it require a special battery? | | | | | Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,269 Bubba - Curmudgeon | | Bubba - Curmudgeon Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,269 |
If you want to use a 6v system, any 6v auto/truck battery that will fit into the battery box will work. I prefer an Optima 6v red-top battery.
Most 6v volt vehicles that have been used over the years have most likely had their battery cables replaced with 12v battery cables - these are not sufficient for use in a 6v starting system. A welding-supply store, large-truck repair service, or a farm-supply store (like TSC) should have 1/0 or 2/0 battery cables (or, they can make them)- a necessity for a 6v system to work properly. Make sure all connections are clean and solid (I also use a conductive, ant-oxidant, copper grease that is readily available in small jars at NAPA).
If you have a battery in your truck, the number of cells will identify 6v vs 12v. If the generator or starter has an oval tag on it, black is 6v and red is 12v. If any of your light bulbs have a number on it, post it here.
Check out the Tech Tips section for information about the 12v conversion.
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