need schematic for installing an amp meter

[dick2256]

Just bought a new voltage regulator for 1964 an d I have a 20 amp fuse in my line and when I get to around 1400 rpm
it blows that fuse
my alternator is a 37amp so what do I need a bigger fuse?

[cad-kid]

Where is the 20 amp fuse located?

[dick2256]

Where is the 20 amp fuse located?

fuse is between the large red wire from alternator and the positive side nof the ammeter gauge
Dick

[cnicol]

Well... that's the wrong place for the gauge and the fuse is too small x3. I'll draw a quick schematic and post in a bit.

[cnicol]

Here's the schematic for a full-current ammeter. This will measure charge or discharge of the battery. You will have to cut and splice into the main "battery" wire that feeds the ignition key. Use a 60 or 80 amp fuse.

[dick2256]

I agree with what you are saying but I used the instructions from the auto meter company where I bought the meter and only removed the fuse I had and went direct hookup without the fuse and so far all is working fine this is on an airboat so I will try it like you say and see if I get the same results.
thanks for your time
Dick

[bbodie52]

You really don't want an ammeter. That is just something in the LONG line to reduce power back to the engine.

Your better choice is just a volt meter. You can tell more, quicker with that than any ammeter plus it is more accurate and less prone to interpretation.

Ken Hand
CORSA Central Division Director
CORSA President
Corvanatics VP

Ammeter is the most dangerous gauge for a car. Voltage running back and forth and gauge failure possibilities. As mentioned use a voltmeter.

best wishes, Steve
Rear Engine Spec. Inc. Golden, Colo.

http://corvaircenter.com/phorum/read.php?1,642324


I tend to agree with these and other comments regarding the use of an ammeter to monitor current flow. A voltmeter is a good tool for monitoring charging system and battery status in your Corvair. I would recommend that you read through all of the posts and comments on the Corvair Center at the above link, and consider abandoning the use of an ammeter in favor of a voltmeter instead.

[cnicol]

Ammeters tell you current flow in whatever wire you put them in. If it's in the alternator output line as you showed, you'll only read alternator output. It will never indicate negative because the alternator is never a consumer. Also, you'll never know if the alternator output is enough to run all the loads and not be discharging the battery. On the other hand, if it's installed in the battery pigtail, you will know if the battery is being charged or discharged, which is the whole point. FWIW, I am a manufacturer an seller of aftermarket fuse panels and wiring kits for custom vehicles and I provide instructions and schematics with every kit. http://www.RacersRods.com

[cnicol]

FWIW, I looked a t Auto Meter's ammeter installation instructions and they're the same as the one I posted earlier; one side of the ammeter connects to the battery terminal and the other connects to vehicle's 10-red main 12v power line near the fuse panel.

[dick2256]

OK guys I got the message
I removed the ammeter and had a cheap voltmeter gauge
so I put that in and it is working great so that problem is solved
thanks for all of the help.
Have a good day.
Dick