Stock Ammeter Gauge

[nosaj2k]

For general reference, what should the stock ammeter gauge read at idle (all accessories off)? At 2000 rpm?

Currently I have a 55 amp alternator w/stock wiring harness ('70 Bronco Sport).

THANKS!

 

[Viperwolf1]

If the battery is fully charged it should just barely read into the charge side, maybe a couple amps. If the battery is discharged it will read more charge. If it's reading into the negative (discharge side) something is wrong.

 

[nosaj2k]

Sweet! Thanks Viperwolf. That is exactly where the gauge reads at idle (barely into the charge side w/fully charged battery). When I increase the rpms, the needle creeps up a bit into the charge range.

Thanks again -

 

[DirtDonk]

Sounds like yours is working fine. Generally, it shouldn't shudder or wobble or swing back and forth over a large range. If it does, either the gauge is wearing out or the voltage regulator is having fits, or a connection somewhere is giving it fits.
You should see it rise rapidly right after startup, and then gradually, but fairly consistently, lower down to where you see it normally.
It might flicker a tiny bit each time you turn on an accessory though, as it initially uses some battery power then the alternator compensates.

It's all fun stuff, and can be very informative as to what's going on with your electrical system.

Paul