once the battery is recharged after starting, the ammeter shouldn't show a discharge except for a second when something like the headlites are first turned on, when running the generator is supplying all power required, not the battery ... OTOH, the ammeters aren't precision instruments, when the system is actually 'neutral', no charge going to [or from] the battery, the ammeter may appear to show a slight discharge, or charge - you need to learn what's normal for your gauge
Bill
