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How do I wire up a voltage meter?

Discussion in 'The Hokey Ass Message Board' started by TINGLER, Sep 27, 2003.

  1. TINGLER
    Joined: Nov 6, 2002
    Posts: 3,410

    TINGLER

    ...............
     
    Last edited: Oct 22, 2010
  2. CharlieLed
    Joined: Feb 21, 2003
    Posts: 2,464

    CharlieLed
    Member

    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.
     
  3. yorgatron
    Joined: Jan 25, 2002
    Posts: 4,228

    yorgatron
    Member Emeritus

    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.
     
  4. Flat Ernie
    Joined: Jun 5, 2002
    Posts: 8,406

    Flat Ernie
    Tech Editor

    [ 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...
    [​IMG]
     
  5. Digger_Dave
    Joined: Apr 10, 2001
    Posts: 2,516

    Digger_Dave
    Member Emeritus

    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)

     

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