Classic/Antique Car Repair/1956 Studebaker

Advertisement

Expert: - 1/16/2008


Question
I have a 56 Studebaker pickup that I am trying to get running again.  I took it to a local mechanic who has been working on it for a year.  He said was ready so I picked it up and drove around the parking lot, only to have it die.  I jumped the battery and drove back to his lot.  He tested everything and said it was the generator.  He got it rebuilt, but it still isn't charging the battery, so he is going to replace the diode and see if that helps.  Any advice on what else could be the problem?

Thanks for your help
Josh


Answer
Hi Josh:

Your problem could be a number of possible issues. Your mechanic is taking the RIGHT next step. Also have him look at the voltage regulator. On 12-volt generator systems, the voltage regulators are very troublesome. Such as, erratic charging and the worst case, points will stick, fusing the wiring into a very hot glow plug. I seen this happen with two Studebakers.
If a diode fails, a dead short can also occur. Because this happens VERY quickly, even a  battery cut-off switch will not prevent major damage. The best solution I am aware of, is to install a circuit breaker on the battery terminal of the voltage regulator. Ask NAPA for an Ecklin circuit breaker #CB 6379 (50 amp). The breaker will have two posts. Bolt one to the BATTERY post of the regulator, the other to the wire to that post. Hope this helps. Good Luck!

Classic/Antique Car Repair

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Vern Bullock

Expertise

Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience

I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.