I do not like fuse links(my opinion) Too hard to fix and too hard to see. I do like fuses, and good fuse holders. The new type fuse, the flat spade types come in a version that has a LED that lights up when the fuse is bad. I like those. Easy to find when something goes bad. Not very "vintage" however. The Voltmeter/Amp meter issue can be resolved with a couple of options, 1 Find a volt meter that will fit(the more difficult part), and remove the Amp meter. You will have to modify the wire harness(again more difficult). 2 The other option is to mount a separate volt meter in a good location with a face that looks "vintage"(easy just dollars) Add some wire to the system(no harness changes) also easy. The hard bit is the location of the meter so it looks like it belongs. Big Amp system? Lots of Alternator and loads? See step 1. As for the 14 gauge wire idea? NO! A fuse link is not, a smaller gauge wire. It is a "fuse" just stretched out in a wire shape. It will melt at a low temp. meant to prevent fire and injury.

Steve H