57 GMCs did not have a voltmeter as an option. The 1/2 tons only had an "idiot
light", which will not work with the alternator. The larger trucks had an
ammeter which does require that all current to be measured pass through it. I
found an ammeter from a big truck and installed it in my 57 using 10 gauge
wire. I soldered the connectors to the wire (didn't use crimp-ons) and have
had no problems in two years of everyday use. That includes air-conditioning
in the Houston summer (March through at least October).
Voltmeters do not require large amounts of current. If that is what you are
actually using an 18 gauge wire would do the job nicely. But if you are using
a voltmeter you need to connect all three wires mentioned in your e-mail
together.
-----Original Message-----
From: SurfDudeSC@aol.com [mailto:SurfDudeSC@aol.com]
Sent: Friday, May 03, 2002 6:49 PM
To: oletrucks@autox.team.net
Subject: [oletrucks] Could they have been that stupid to put all those
amps through a voltmeter?
So I'm rewiring my 57 GMC 1/2 ton and behold.
Start solenoid (battery) -- to -- discharge side of voltmeter.
Alternator primary -- to -- charge side of voltmeter.
Ignition switch (battery terminal) -- to -- charge side of voltmeter.
All 10 guage red primary wire with battery amperage running through one tiny
little voltmeter in a steel dash in the cab waiting to short out and fry
right before my eyes (or my 15 year old son's, see its his truck I just do
all the mechanical work on it).
THERE HAS TO BE A BETTER WAY!!! Any advice appreciated to get those amps
outside of the cab where they belong. Thanks. David
57 GMC 1/2 ton, original 270 engine.
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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