solenoid question

[wilhelm]

The solenoid on my '52 Kaiser is stamped with "50-12v."  The car has a 6 volt system.  Is it ok to use the 12v solenoid?  Thanks ...

[joefrazer]

I'm surprised it works. The solenoid should be a 6V unit.

Tractor Supply carries a 6V unit - part number DR1465.

[wilhelm]

Thanks for that information, joefrazer.  Maybe this will start to explain why I've had problems with that car not starting. 

Why would the 12v not work as well?  Could it damage the electrical system?

[boatingbill]

Your 6v battery is trying to operate a solenoid that requires 12v to operate properly. I would think that the 12v unit
would have a lower current rating than a 6v unit and that the contacts in the solenoid would not last long due to the
higher current.

[Fid]

The coil in a 12 volt solenoid would have more windings in it making it harder for 6 volts to supply the current (amps) it would need to operate.  Likely won't hurt anything.  Having the correct 6 volt will work much better.

[wilhelm]

Thanks to all of you for the help and for explaining this situation to me.  After you told me (joefrazer) about Tractor Supply having it, I decided to check locally at several parts places.  Most don't have it.  The only two that have it or can order it were about $53. So, thanks for that tip about Tractor Supply at $17.  What a huge difference in price.

Question:  Since I don't have a parts book ... where can I get one? ... also, does a '51 Kaiser Deluxe use the same solenoid?

Really appreciate everyone's help.
Robert

[joefrazer]

KF used both Autolite and Delco electrical systems in their cars. The Tractor Supply solenoid fits the Delco equipped systems.

[wilhelm]

How would I know if my '51 Kaiser has a Delco system or an Autolite system?  The part that was mentioned and available at Tractor Supply, which system is it for?  Thanks!

[rialto]

A 51 Kaiser could have either system. The starter,generator,distributor and voltage regulator should have metal tags riveted to them that will say either Delco or Auto Lite on them. All four parts should be the same brand. 47 to 50 uses only Auto Lite. 51 and early 52 could be either brand. Late 52 to 55 use Delco.

[wilhelm]

I overlooked joefrazer's comment earlier that the Tractor Supply solenoid is for Delco systems.  My mistake.

I checked both my '51 and my '52 and they are both Delco.

Thanks to all for helping me figure this out.  Makes me glad I chose Kaisers for my collection.

[84RabbitGTI]

Just FYI Wilhelm, The shop manual has been scanned and is available on the www dot circleKF dot com site run by our PNW Region of the Kaiser-Frazer Owner's Club monthly news bulletin, "The Traveler" editor Jim Betts.  It is most usable if you take a few minutes and sign up so that you can log into it. 
The site does not cost anything, but of course, you CAN sign up to get our region's news letter if you like and have it mailed to you for the low, low price of ten dollars a year!  Parts manuals are available from time to time on ebay and at some swap meets, occasionally.  Also some of the Club's vendors have them.
Enjoy your Kaisers!

[pnw_oldmags]

Sorry but I have to report the PNW Traveler Mailed Subscription is now $12.50.

[wilhelm]

Hey! Thanks to both of you for the information!