HRL really clarified the ammeter/shunt system, so I read a bunch of stuff and now I am confused again! (I know, normal op for me.)
The research I did says.. 80 amp alternator, 80 amp ammeter. So the 30-0-30 is a 30 amp, the 60-0-60 is a 60 amp, and I have an 80 amp alternator. Why do I have an 80 amp Alternator? Because for some reason, they are making them bigger these days for cheaper. I will be running an inverter and power some semi-portable electrical tools, or AC accessories, computers, stereo equipment, etc. I didnt even think about the ammeter issue.
So how do you make the original ammeter (THINK its 30-0-30) with such a big honkin alternator? If I use HRL's stainless steel radiator hose clamp idea and 8 gauge wire, is that sufficient? If so, I am putting heat shrink tubing over the clamp! Maybe a few thicknesses of it.
I am wondering how a person can calculate what ohm shunt is needed for each size alternator, but can't find that anywhere. Also, 80 amps is an odd number for ammeters, so I cant find an 80 shunt, just a 60 or 100.
