On 8 Feb 2005 06:43:11 -0800, "N8N" > wrote:

>Hi all,
>
>I just traded my '64 Stude convertible project for a really nice '55
>Commander Starlight. The one sort-of bad thing about this car is that
>the drivetrain has been swapped for one from a '63 model Stude so I'm
>pretty much committed to running 12V unless I want to track down a 6V
>torque converter and starter. The really bad news is that it would
>appear that the PO's idea of a 12V conversion was to (badly) install a
>one-wire GM alternator (I'm surprised it hasn't thrown the belt yet)
>and change some of the bulbs. I know how to handle most of the issues,
>but I would really like to have working temperature and fuel gauges,
>and the last time I did a 12V conversion, I was still in high school
>and I just used a dropping resistor and Zener diode, I'm sure there's a
>more efficient and elegant way to accomplish what I'm trying to do.
>
>I found this article:
>
>http://www.rodandcustommagazine.com/...5_0310_rewire/
>
>they recommend these little "Runtz" voltage droppers for the gauges,
>has anyone used them? Do they work well? Sure looks easier than
>building my own power supply.
>
>any comments appreciated.
>
>thanks,
>
>nate


I've done it in the past using a solid state voltage regulator like an
ECG 1934 (5 volts 2 amp) or a 935 (adjustable 5 amp) Bolt to the back
of the dash for a heat sink, and you're gold.