The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The Electrical Bay 6 to 12 Volt Conversion

Do any of you know the 12 volt equivalent part numbers of QUALITY USA MADE BULBS for Dash, Speedometer,Hi Beam indicator, interior, Headlight, Front marker/Turn signal, rear Tail/turnsignal/stop lights and Turn signal Flasher unit for a 51 chevy truck? How many bulbs are in the back of the instrument cluster? There are 2 in Speedo plus the Hi/Low indicator beam, Correct? Thanks, Jerry

6v - 12v bulb chart from Tim Lederman's site.

Not sure about US made bulbs. Might try an internet search using the bulb number.

This is the original 6v bulbs and converted 12v bulbs in my '54 gauge cluster:

One bulb in the ignition switch housing:
6v = #51: 1 candle power, 1.7w @ 7.5v
12v = #53: 0.7 candle power, 1.7w @ 14.4v

Two bulbs in gauge cluster:
6v = #55: 2 candle power, 2.9w @ 7v
12v = #57: 2 candle power, 3.4w @ 14v

Two bulbs on each side of speedo:
6v = #55: 2 candle power, 2.9w @ 7v
12v = #57: 2 candle power, 3.4w @ 14v

Two indicator bulbs in speedo. Both bulbs are surrounded by 1/2" ID cardboard tubes with colored plastic lenses. Red for high beam, green for turn signal.

Top lamp is for high beam indicator
6v = #51: 1 candle power, 1.7w @ 7.5v
12v = #53: 0.7 candle power, 1.7w @ 14.4v

Bottom lamp is indicator for factory installed turn signals. '54 was the first year with an indicator lamp for turn signals.
6v = #51: 1 candle power, 1.7w @ 7.5v
12v = #53: 0.7 candle power, 1.7w @ 14.4v
Later model 12v trucks used a #57

Thanks Lonnie. Now to figure out the 54 to 51 differences. I do not think the 51 has an ignition switch bulb, only a bulb on each side of speedo and only a single bulb for Hi beam. I will pick up a few bulbs tomorrow and can then work on it over the weekend. Jerry

Do you have an original ignition switch?

Hey Jerry, there's a bulb at the ignition switch; at least I have one on mine. They're sold in pairs anyway; pick up an extra one.

I just checked Tim's chart, 6V ~ #55 and 12V ~ #67, not 57. Thought that might help when you stop by the parts store. I've been looking for a page like that (Thanks for sharing Lonnie!)

Dave -

I believe you misread the chart. "57" and "67" look similar in the chart. Hold "Ctrl" and tap "+" to enlarge it.

To confirm, enter the bulb number in the "bulb search" box on this website. It will list the specs of the bulb, the 6v or 12v equivalent, and the vehicle application. I used this website in addition to the bulb chart on Tim's website when I researching the bulbs for my '54. Pretty neat site.

EDIT - choose "AC/DELCO" when second window appears to see Chevrolet applications.

Jerry -

The 6v bulbs for your '51 are in the operator's manual.

In addition to the "bulb chart", you can find the 12v equivalent on the web site that I posted to Dave.

Lonnie -
I guess I shouldn't try to squint that much! And thanks for the additional link! I love this forum.

Dave

Lonnie, Thank you very much. I printed out operators manual info for my truck,6v - 12v bulb chart and other stuff you posted,crossed the bulb numbers from 6-12 volt, went to NAPA and in about 10 minutes had all the bulbs gathered . Your info was Spot On! Jerry

And I learned something new from you all, YES, there is a bulb on the ignition switch!

on my 1954 the wire for the turn signals goes
to the flasher under the dash ,but the light does
not work,i changed bulb and also grounded and still
nothing

Great light bulb reference from 6v to 12v. Thanks for doing the work for us! Heading to NAPA - Kevin