CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => Restoration => Topic started by: epetit on September 07, 2013, 12:49:02 AM

Title: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: epetit on September 07, 2013, 12:49:02 AM

Hey guys.
Need some advice here. Hope I am posting in the correct section.  I am trying to finish up on my 1969 Z and just got the engine fired up in the car after a complete teardown and body off restoration of everything and noticed the amp gauge is reading negative ? OER Console and gauge package, new dash, engine, and forward lighting harnesses. All other console and dash gauges are working correctly. Any and all help or hints would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: ZLP955 on September 07, 2013, 12:56:15 AM

I believe that means the alternator is undercharging. Does the needle rise to zero (or higher) if you increase the engine revs?

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: epetit on September 07, 2013, 12:59:34 AM

I would think that too, but everything is new, alternator, battery, etc. ? Like I have something crossed ?

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: ZLP955 on September 07, 2013, 01:01:58 AM

When you shut the engine off, does the ammeter go to zero? And then go to discharge (-ve) if you turn on the headlights?

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: epetit on September 07, 2013, 01:07:14 AM

Just ran out to the shop and checked. Battery connected everything in the off position the gauge is at 0. Turn the headlamps on and the gauge goes positive instead of negative?

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: cook_dw on September 07, 2013, 01:20:38 AM

Sounds like a neg & pos are swapped.  Or a ground not connected.

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: epetit on September 07, 2013, 01:25:53 AM

It has been awhile since I installed the console so is it possible the plug connection on the back of the gauge is plugged in wrong? Needs to be flipped? If this might be the issue, will the gauge cluster come out without removing the enitre console?
Thanks

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: 69pace on September 07, 2013, 03:04:04 AM

Yup. Check battery with your multi meter first then swap the leads on the gauge.

Title: Re: 1969 Amp gauge problem
Post by: epetit on September 08, 2013, 12:27:42 AM

Thanks.
I will check this tomorrow. Sure acts like I have the connector on the amp gauge plugged in wrong.