Converting a Caterpillar 8T 12 grader from 6v to 12v

Probably one of the alternator adapter mounts would be the best way in my opinion. That way you have good capacity in a unit that can be easily replaced with a standard readily available and cheap component.

There are the off the shelf adapters that mount the alternator direct drive through a lovejoy type coupling and then I have seen pictures of some that were belt driven off a pulley mounted on the rear end of a shortened, gutted generator. Very common to use a 10 or 12SI Delco. These were used on GM vehicles for many years so they are common and relatively cheap.

Thank you for the reply ccjersey. Do you by chance know if any place that sells these adapter kits. Thanks again Cody.

only a month or two ago there was talk about this type of conversion but not on a grader, cant remember what it was but here is a link to a mob in Texas I think

http://www.auto-lec.com/directstart.htm

Paul

Florin Tractor in Sacramento has ready made single wire alternators for various Cat applications. Their telephone number is (916) 383-0317.

There's also a shop that makes 6v alternators that "look" like generators, with the long body shape. They look pretty cool and still put out the amps and don't need an external regulator (although for that authentic look you could still have the original regulator there, but just with the terminals re-wired). Only problem is they're priced for the premium market... I'm very keen to keep my D2 6v despite the advantages of going to 12v, just because I want it to be original, so the pony starter might need some attention so that the spin speed is adequate

I use a solargizer battery maintainer on my CAT 12 and my Kobelco tractor and my RV. Unless you are using headlights, these units keep your battery in top shape. The army national gaurde uses them on all their equip. It also knocks the sulfation off the plates of the battery and makes your battery last longer. Bought one on ebay recently for $30.00 Just checked Amazon. The 2 watt that i use is $68.00. That one works on 6 to 36 volts. They also sell 5 watt Chargers for about $170.00

When I did my 212, I used

http://www.ccbattery.com/Cat--Conversion.html

This style are all about the same price, this looked nicest.

Which ever alternator conversion you go to I'd suggest you get one with the Delco 1-wire alternator and avoid the ones with the Motorola version.