1955 Thunderbird, converted to 12V

[Pete986]

I recently purchased a 1955 Thunderbird that was converted to a 12 volt system.

I need to replace the starter. Would I just need a starter for a 1956?

I'm assuming the flywheel and mechanicals are all the same.

I couldn't take the old one off due to the rain today.

Any advice is appreciated

This page contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBay Partner, and Amazon Associate I may be compensated if you make a purchase at no cost to you.

 

[JDJ]

I recently purchased a 1955 Thunderbird that was converted to a 12 volt system.

I need to replace the starter. Would I just need a starter for a 1956?

I'm assuming the flywheel and mechanicals are all the same.

I couldn't take the old one off due to the rain today.

Any advice is appreciated

I’m converting my 55 Bird to 12volt as I speak. I took both the starter and my original generator to a local shop and had my starter cleaned and tested. You can use your old 6volt starter. My starter needed a bath inside and out and then the Bendix was frozen beyond repair from sitting for forty plus years. Have a shop that is knowledgeable in these parts work on them. I got both starter and generator repaired for about the same price as a new starter !
Don't forget a new starter seal. Casco in Ohio has seal. Also the generator can be modified and reused for 12 volt as well.

 

[Pete986]

I don't know what starter is in there now.
The car is fully converted, I can take the starter out today, thanks to the nice weather

 

[Pete986]

I put a '56 starter in there and it starts like a champ, now.
MAN, what a PITA that top bolt was!!!!

 

[JDJ]

I put a '56 starter in there and it starts like a champ, now.
MAN, what a PITA that top bolt was!!!!

Glad you’re all set. The bolt is fairly easy with a rotatable angle socket.