QuestionQUESTION: I read the answer regarding switching to a 12 volt but how do I determine if I have a negative ground or not due to an upgraded radio
ANSWER: Hi Rick. Assuming that your car works OK at present with two 6 volt batteries, and that the radio works, just look at the batteries. As you look back from the seating area, the one on the right will have an earth strap. If that is connected to the negative terminal of the battery, then you have negative earth.
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QUESTION: I know this is probably stupid but do I hook up the battery to the two none connecting terminals or do I need to do some changes to the terminals. Also will any 12 volt battery work Thanks for all the help
AnswerHi Rick. Your question is very sensible.
I use the largest, most powerful 12 volt battery that I can get into the hole. In the UK I use a number 063 battery, which requires just a slight alteration to the edge of the hole (using a large hammer). Take out the two 6 volt batteries. Remove the cable that runs between them and store it in your `may be useful someday' cupboard. You may have to cut off one of the terminals to remove the cable.
Assuming the new battery is longer than the old 6 volt one, I recommend that you now cut a square of inch thick plywood to go into the battery cage underneath the new battery.
Unbolt the earth strap from the hole on the right (as you are looking at them) and bolt it inside the hole on the left. You may need to drill a hole. Now drop the battery in so the + terminal is on the left, and hook it up. Don't forget to strap down the new battery so that it cannot jump upwards. One of the original straps is ideal.
