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Old February 19th 08, 08:50 PM posted to rec.aviation.homebuilt
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Default Alternator wiring

On Feb 19, 12:38 pm, Sliker wrote:

Sounds like another reason not to use that alternator wiring method. I
also remember reading about him mentioning using a high amperage rated
shunt for the amp meter when used in that location. The issues seem to
snowball. I have one question, if the B lead were hooked up to the
starter contactor, would reversing the wires on the amp meter make it
read correctly?


Nope. Now it would read "charge" all the time, even during discharge.

The ammeter is an indication of what the battery is doing.
It needs to be wired as shown so that there are two directions of
electron flow so you know whether the alternator is managing to keep
up or not. If the alternator's output isn't wired to the bus itself
rather than the contactor, you'll have no idea if it's working
properly. The ammeter won't be able to tell you anything worthwhile.

Dan