A true voltmeter wouldn't draw anywhere near 60 amps. It could be wired inline with any other load wire tapped off the side.
If that box/strap/shunt (or whatever) is a shunt, then DON'T connect a hot wire to it if connected to ground. You should get out your multimeter and check between various terminals. Across a shunt would show very little resistance, and would basically smoke a hot wire connected to it if the opposite side is grounded. Measure ohms per the attached picture between 1-2, 3-4, 4-5, as well as between 1-4 (fork) with the shunt(?) disconnected. Also measure between 3, 4, and 5 to ground (individually).
Has the ammeter actually been changed out or is it the original with that gizmo connected across it? Post a pic of the front of the gauge as well.
You don't just want to connect hot wires willy-nilly or you'll let the smoke out of something.
[on edit] What Bartamos (he got there first) said. We need more info. Do what I suggested and we can help figure it out.
Last edited by klhansen; 01/21/20257:11 PM.
Kevin 1951 Chevy 3100 work truck Follow this saga in Project Journal Photos 1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car) Busting rust since the mid-60's If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.
