Switching in voltmeter for ammeter

[Gunner]

Originally Posted by RICK LAKE

Gunner If you are just changing to a volt meter, connect the 2 wires from the amp meter and tape them together.

Thanks, Rick, I realize that's the easiest solution and even permits reverting to the ammeter easily. But it still leaves those two wires, carrying nearly all of the electrical system's juice, running through the car. I'd just as soon get them out of the circuit for safety and to make it easier to upgrade the electricals. For one thing, I expect to need to add HD cooling fans for my climate (the car was built and run in the Northeast, and California's central valley is HOT).

I know a lot of classic car owners and shade tree mechanics are terrified of the electrical system - they'll throw a wrench on an all-aluminum engine or suspension or whatever without a second thought, but get the shakes when they have to crimp a terminal. I've got a lot of experience with automotive electricals and have no problem doing anything that needs doing; my concern here is doing it right with respect to this car.

If I didn't hate ammeters so much, I wouldn't bother.