Has anybody ever used resistors/voltage drops for a 12 volt system to 6 volt semaphores and if so, where can I purchase some in Melbourne?alternatives.....?
Thanks,
a

Convert to 12V - it's a lot less hassle. Resistors can be bought for the wiper and coil (but a new one would be cheaper - in fact, I have a spare,) but to try and convert the whole system with resistors would be a major job (producing a lot of heat and wasting a lot of power.) The wiper motor should be pretty easy to find at any wrecker - if you get really stuck I can probably rebuild a dud for you, but I might be moving soon. 12V globes are available for all applications and you'll end up with a better wiring system than stock 12V beetles!

Stick a 12V low amperage (2 amp) bulb in the semaphores and they'll be OK . Anything more will melt the lenses....coil will be OK provided you don't leave them on for hours...

RobK

Thanks for the advice!
a

So we are talking 12V 24W globe.
I hope this is something you have tried yourself.
I would like to try this very easy way .
I have been putting off installing my semaphores - intending to one day build a regulated 6V power supply (something that may never happen).

gees No - not 24W! MY MISTAKE!

I should have said 12V 2W NOT 2A. Major problem with 12V higher wattage globes melting the lenses rather than 12V being too much for the coil (that said it would be best not to leave em on for hours though,,,,)

You have the same problem with splitbus interior light lenses and the coloured speedo lenses for oil and genny in 12V converted buses.....

2W can be hard to find in some base configurations - you could always carefully experiment (out of car) with 5W if that's all you can get....

RobK

Sorry, misunderstood what you were looking for - tell me the wattage of the globes and I'll give you the specs of a resistor and where to get it.

TA Rob , glad you caught that quickly.
I'll have a look for some 2W 12V bulbs, Thanks.