Classic/Antique Car Repair: 6 volt to 12 volt

Question
I am restoring a 1952 chevy and I'm considering adding air conditioning.  Been told I must upgrade to 12 volt elec system and change out all bulbs gauges wiring etc??? is this correct and what pitfalls are there?  Locally I find only repair guys that say it can be done but none that have ever done it!! that's scary !!   what do you think?  I live in Arkansas  and would travel to have the work done

jim

Answer
Changing from 6 to 12 does not necessitate changing any wire sizes in the system. Wire size is tailored to the amp flow in a system not voltage. In fact going from 6 to 12 volts will mean that the amp flow in the system will be 1/2 what it was with 6 volts. So, the wiring is good to go. You will need to change the ignition coil, light bulbs, radio, heater blower, generator or install an alternator, and install a resistor in the gauge circuit to allow the 6 volt gages to work on 12 volts. My stock answer for “where can I find….” Is to latch on to a copy of Hemmings Motor News, the old car hobbies classified bible. There are many companies that supply parts for old cars and you will find them in Hemmings. www.hemmings.com
Brad