joel_400 59 #1 Posted January 14, 2010 Working on wiring my D160 now. Have a question on where to wire in the ammeter. The way the Kohler manual and a Wheel Horse manual shows is wired into the battery wire to the ignition switch. Just wondering if this is correct and maybe if there is any other ways to wire this as I don't want to wire it all up and have to change anything, as I'm picky when it comes to wiring. I just want it to look real neat and work properly the first time...haha Any input on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance. Joel Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TT-(Moderator) 1,162 #2 Posted January 14, 2010 That is correct. Picture the flow of electricity in that wire....... When the tractor is being started, the power is traveling from the battery to the ignition switch (to the "activation" terminal on the starter solenoid and to the ignition coil) which causes the gauge needle to drop. (because of the "direction" the ammeter is connected) Once the engine starts and the charging system starts sending electricity back to the battery to replenish it, the needle follows that flow and rises above center. (zero) As the battery voltage rises closer to fully charged, the electricity being sent there by the charging system decreases to a "happy medium" - which is just enough to maintain the power being used by the of the ignition coil. The needle of the ammeter will usually drop back to just above zero. (kind of a condensed version, but an explanation nonetheless ) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Duff 206 #3 Posted January 14, 2010 On a parallel subject (no pun!), I've got a new voltmeter for 312-8#2. I've studied the thing carefully and neither terminal is marked positive or negative. What/how do I test to figure out which terminal is which without burning it up? Thanks! Duff :banghead: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TT-(Moderator) 1,162 #4 Posted January 14, 2010 Good question, Duff. (since I can't recall ever seeing an unmarked gauge) Perhaps try hooking a dry cell battery (1.5V AAA, AA, C, D, etc.) up to it quickly and observe the needle movement? It shouldn't fry with that small of an amount of voltage. :thumbs: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Duff 206 #5 Posted January 14, 2010 Good question, Duff. (since I can't recall ever seeing an unmarked gauge) Perhaps try hooking a dry cell battery (1.5V AAA, AA, C, D, etc.) up to it quickly and observe the needle movement? It shouldn't fry with that small of an amount of voltage. Surprised me, too, Terry...I'll try the small battery idea - good tip! Thanks! Duff :thumbs: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
