tk261,
The alternator need a little kick of power before it does its thing. If your alternator is a SI unit, #1 wire needs to see voltage when you turn the key to the ON position. If you are using a older, externally regulated alternator, the 'F' terminal on the alternator should see power when you do the same thing with the key.
With the externally regulated style, you can actually hear the contacts click inside the regulator (firewall) when you cycle the key from ON to OFF.
If you have a voltage tester, you can see if you get power to this wire when you turn the key on.
There is a little hole to stick a dinky screwdriver in that's located in the back of the case. This would only apply to the SI unit. It will ground the regulator (internal) and put the alternator into the "balls to the wall" mode. If your ammeter is working, it should show a big charge.
I don't recall how to full field a external unit, but I'll bet someone does.
In conclusion, the alternator might not be charging because it isn't being told to..OR, your ammeter isn't functioning and it really is charging...OR, the alternator is bum! These checks should help you figure out what is going on.
If you do have a externally regulated alternator, the voltage regulator could easily be the cause of the problem.
Stuart
