One terminal gets connected to the voltage source the other to ground. The hot lead coming into the fuse block from the regulator is the voltage side you should connect the "+" side of the gauge. The negative "-" side goes to ground.
let us know when your generator "craps out" willya? there's a few of us on here that have more trouble free miles on generators than alternators.the wire gauge doesn't have to be any thicker than you'd need on a multimeter,14 should work.
[ QUOTE ] If so that sounds good and simple to me! [/ QUOTE ] Yep - it is that simple. Ideally, you want the + wire going into the fusebox right where the main power comes in from the generator/VR prior to any load being drawn, but it won't make much difference in reality. That's reason # 37 why voltmeters are better than ammeters IMHO...
Suggest the "+" lead be hooked to an ACCESSORY point on the fuse block. Doesn't matter where. That way it will not be taking a reading when the ignition is off. Otherwise the volt meter will be reading ALL the time. Voltmeters read volts in the electrical system. When an alternator/generator "charges" the voltage will increase throughout the whole electrical system. If it is an inexpensive voltmeter and it is left on ALL the time, it could short out sometime. (usually when your not around)