PapaJ,
Don't rule out the voltage regulator. It might have funky points that aren't allowing the generator to kick into charge when the headlight load is applied. A massive discharge indicated by the ammeter would produce smoke and fire if it were a short. If it were merely a heavy draw on the battery caused by a 'no charge' situation in the charging system, it would go on until the battery was dead...no fire-no smoke.
Stuart
