Later model 12V generator on a 1961 FLH

[61flh]

Greetings,

Does anyone know if a later model 12 V generator (like from a 65 or 66 big twin) will bolt right up to a 61 FLH? Externally, they look the same; at least to me. But is the drive gear and the screw threads the same? I was thinking of converting my bike to 12V and wanted to have more choices.

[mbskeam]

hello,
yes it will goes in.....
but obviously you will have to do the light bulb changes and regulator.
but you have to either drill your case bolt holes out for 5/16 bolts or you can put keenserts into the end of the gen, this will reduce the threads to 1/4x20 so you can leave the case intact, but you will have to run a 1/4x24 tap to tap out the insert holes to the correct threads, the threads will be ok if you do this. as it will only be cutting on the last thread to get it to the proper thread count.
mbskeam

[Cotten]

'61s already had 5/16" bolts.
(The update for earlier models usuing 1/4"-24 screws is to just put 1/4"-24 Helicoil inserts into the 5/16"-24 holes on the generator. No drilling or tapping needed.)
The conversion also requires a 12v coil, and a resistor on the horn.

[mbskeam]

hello,
I thought that the gen went to 5/16 when it went 12 volt, my bad . what year did they go to 5/16 bolts?
and where do you get your 1/4x24 helicoils from?I might like some on hand, for just incase.
mbskeam

[61flh]

Thanks for the tips; I ordered a new 12 volt generator and a regulator for it.

Another question: I just installed one of those Tech Cycle 12 volt starter kits. It wasn't a 'bolt on' application but required quite a bit of alteration to get it to fit and I am not quite done altering the primary cover and putting all the stuff back on.
Anyway, my new generator and regulator has not arrived yet, so I disconnected the 6 V generator and then turned it on and fired it up. The headlight sure is a lot brighter now and will probably burn out quickly. But, I was wondering if I really need to replace the coils. The 61 has 2 coils that are hid under a once shiney cover and bolted to the seat plunger frame tube.
Has anybody done a 12V conversion but left the ignition as it was and had any problems?

[Cotten]

The larger bolts accompanied the Model 58 generator.
1/4"-24 helicoils are available from V-TWIN or Eastern.
Dunno about the coil question, but if the bike has already been radicalized with a starter, it would be best to go all the way to an auto-advance with a single coil anyway.