43 GPW Conversion 6 to 12 volt

[Mark Tombleson]

I'm sorry Herb, I don't think the pulley is the same size on the generators that fit in between the seats and the one that fits on the engine. The MZ series uses a AL-GDJ-4804C 12v or AL-GFZ-4801 24v (plus some later models) and the pulleys all appear smaller.

Jim Krombach has one of the Ford conversions on his Navy radio jeep, email him and see if he will measure it for you.

Krombachja@aol.com

[Herb Tate]

Thanks Mark. When did the military start the 24V conversion on MZ jeeps?

[Mark Tombleson]

That is a good question, Herb. The physical evidence seems to show they were first used in late 1943 or early 1944 as some of the components on my generator assembly are dated in October 1943. I have photos and a Willys Overland engineering drawing of a later data plate specifically for the 24v generator as "a unit of Model MZ series radio equipment", dated 12-27-44.

I do have a 12/24v NOS power supply with the inspection tag still on it dated 3-20-1945.

Sorry to say I don't have a BOM on this item yet so I don’t really know if any jeeps came out of the factory with this option.

[Karl Eberhard]

The original 12V generator is bigger than the 6V so you have to do the whole conversion (battery move, etc.) I had a dead 6V generator rewound as a 12V. Looks and fits like the 6V. Many electric motor shops can do this. Mine was done thru Northstar Willys in Dassel, MN. It cost the same as a rebuilt 6V only I had to wait for it.

[Herb Tate]

I have seen later model 12V generators used that bolt right in place of the 6V unit. I can't remember if it was Chevrolet or Dodge. Then all you need is to change out the bulbs, regulator and get a 12V fuel guage or get a voltage step down kit from J.C. Whitney.

[Jeff H]

Hello Phil H

You didn't leave us with your email address. I have a 12V Autolite generator that I will trade for the 6V one.

It is not an original Jeep piece, but looks the part and does fit, it came on an MB engine I bought.

If Phil is not interested, the offer is open to anyone else who would want it. I'm staying with 6V. Pics available.

Jeff H

[lindyp38]

hi phil.....id stay with the 6v setup.....mine starts rite up....even with cold weather........

u may wanna pick up a set of cables from vintage wiring of maine....

they make a big difference in start up performance....

good luck

[SeaBee]

I am looking for a 6 volt system i have the generator now but need everything else. seabee-vet @earthlink.net

[Herb Tate]

The biggest electrical problems that I have had prior to rewiring was grounds. Especially the ground that shouldn't have been a ground Clean connections and good grounds will make a world of difference. The only reason that I have the large 12V genny is because I am running radios. Otherwise I would have stayed with the original 6V system. It will work just fine.

[simonsmith]

hi Phil, Converted my jeep last year here in the UK. Kept the 6 volt generator and fitted an inverterter which pushed the output up to 12 volts. I fitted a 12 volt Lucas regulater and bulbs etc. If you want more details please ask. Simon simon-r.smith@ticali.co.uk

[SeaBee]

thank you for the input .

[Karl Eberhard]

I had a 6 v generator (core) rebuilt and rewound as 12 v. It is a simple matter for a motor rebuild shop. That way, it looks and fits exactly correct. Contact Jim at Northstar Willys.

[SeaBee]

i am still looking for a 6 volt generator and regulator. anyone out there?
seabee-vet@earthlink.net my spam program will send you a mesage please fill out request so i gan get your e mail. thank you seabee mike