QuestionI have a 1948 Mercury 2 door with the flat head V8. I believe the engine is from a 1952 ford because the distributor is round not oval shaped. It has a 6 volt electrical, and I think positive ground. The problem that I have is that the only light that works is the license plate light. The car starts and runs, it is just the electrical system that I am having a problem with. Any assistance that you can provide is greatly appreciated.
John
AnswerWow, that can be any one of about 863 1/2 possible causes! My guess would be that some boob tried to start it by jumping it from a 12 volt battery, and probably didn't know that it was positive ground either!
Start by checking each and every item in the car. First check all the bulbs that don't work - if they are all blown, you're in big trouble, because there is probably other damage also. Make sure all the other items are turned off (heater, radio, etc.) or disconnected (clock) and start with the gauges first. Is the ammeter working? How about the other gauges - what's the story there?
You are probably going to need professional help with this unless you are good with electrical problems - it is going to be quite a chore to dope all this out - I could do it for you (I'm an electrical engineer), but I retired years ago - you need to find an auto electrical guy to take on the project.
So at least, start with the bulbs and fuses first, replace everything that you can find that is bad, and then see what you've got.
If you post more information about specific items, I may be able to help more, and I'm willing to try.
Dick
