Electrical Question

[HypoLuxa]

Hello Everyone,
I am am new here (lurking mostley).
I have a project boat that I have been working on. 1973 Avenger Hull w/ a 455 Olds.
Any way, How does one get current from the alternator back to the battery? I had a dead short prior to me figuring out it was the alternator to the amp meter, that was giving me trouble. I hope this question makes sense.
Doug

[BADBLOWN572]

Hyp, usually the way that the alternator wires run is from the alternator to the hot side of the starter. That is where the battery cable connects. The current goes to the starter where it is transferred to the battery cable and back to the battery. Hope that helps.
[ August 18, 2003, 09:18 AM: Message edited by: BADBLOWN572 ]

[Oldsquirt]

BADBLOWN572, that would be the preferred method if using a volt meter.
When using an ampmeter, the alternator output must run all the way to the ampmeter and then back to the battery. This, alone, is a good reason to use a voltmeter instead. There is a lot of voltage drop in those old wires running from engine to dash and back to battery.

[Boozer]

Also...
Make sure that you use all matching zip ties or color coordinate them. I hear ugly zip ties start fires. :D