Now that low current LED lamps are becoming common and allegedly effective, how practical is it to change the voltage regulator from 6v to 12v, with a Lucas magdyno? I seem to remember that the drawbacks outweighed the benefit unless it was rewound. But that assumed the current draw from a filament bulb.
It's becoming impossible to find 6 volt bayonet type conventional headlight bulbs, although later pre-focus ones still seem easy to find. The earlier type seems to be available at 6v in halogen or LED. 12v will require LED I assume.
The main drawback...
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Don't Use the Regulator from a Car
Dave,
Don't be tempted to use the old voltage regulator from a car.
I did this in the 90s it worked ok...for a while.
It eventually melted all the solder from the commutator.
I see Rex's Speed Shop now sell a solid state regulator that supposedly cures this problem.
I've got a feeling Paul Goff sell one as well.
He also has an armature that is wound for 12 volt that, according to Rex, minimises the need for higher revs.
Don Anson
Melbourne Australia
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And of course...
... our own Al Osborne sells suitable regulators.
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Hi, No 'e' in Osborn. The…
Hi,
No 'e' in Osborn. The item you want is http://www.aoservices.co.uk/data/v-reg.htm
Tony
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Thanks Al.
Thanks Al.
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... is that usually 12 volts needs a higher dynamo speed for the same power. If you habitually use higher revs this won't be a problem but if you're a bimbler then there may not be enough to keep the battery charged. Six volt LEDs are available but are of variable quality in my limited experience.