QuestionThe 1950 Studebaker has a 6-volt battery system. Is it advisable to convert it to the now-common 12-volt system for the sake of convenience (not for the sake of originality)?
Where can I find/buy a wiring harness for the car (preferably in California)?
AnswerYou will get as many answers to this question as people you ask. Personally, I have a strong dislike for changing the voltage on a 6 volt car. These cars started and ran reliably on 6 volts when they were new, and as long as they are properly serviced and operated, they will continue to do so. I have quite a few 6 volt cars, and I assure you they all start reliably and give no trouble at all. It is important to be sure you have the correct battery cables, and that every connection is clean and bright, and made to the correct point. It is also important to keep the starter, generator and wiring in good shape. Your car is not only 6 volts, it is positive ground, so even if you converted to 12 volts, in order to use modern stereo and the like you would also have to convert it to negative ground.
You will find people who have done this - but they won't tell you about how their gauges burned out, or their horns quit. Yes, I know these problems all have work around methods (I'm a retired electronics engineer, so I probably understand more about this than the average hobbiest), but these things all have their drawbacks. You can avoid all the problems and keep your car original - I think its the best choice.
As for wiring harnesses, the best in the business is in San Bernardino, and the name is Y and Z's Yesterdays. If you cannot find them with that information, post a follow up question to me and I'll get you the address and phone number.
Good luck with your Studie. I drove a 48 Land Cruiser for years, and my wife's daily driver was a 62 Hawk until 1994! I also had 2 Studebaker trucks = great trucks! Join the Studebaker Driver's club for the best magazine in the hobby - bar none!
Dick Benjamin
