Bob,
Yes, you're getting there. I put a '76 column in my old truck. The ignition switch was indeed located mid column and actuated by the switch by means of a long rod.
The ammeter wouldn't have a ground side. The neg, or - corresponds to 'discharge' on the meter face. Simply stated, the voltage generated by the alternator goes to the - side of the ammeter, through it to the +, or charge side and on to the battery by way of the large stud on the starter solenoid.
The - side of the ammeter also would connect to the key switch which would switch all the loads to the fuse block. When the key is turned OFF, any switched device would be denergized.
Because you are using the newer steering column with key, your bypass circuit would probably go through the solenoid. My bet would be you are going with a GM HEI that would preclude any bypass monkey motion. Even if you retained a coil type ignition, a internally resisted coil would also do away with extra wires and associated BS.
You will need to identify the START/RUN and ACC positions on your column mounted switch. A ohmmeter would be a necessity for this type of work.
More help is probably on the way! Good luck.
Stuart
