Fitting a new Ammeter to a Fordson 1957

[Blueorange]

Hi,
I am putting in all new gauges to my 1957 Major (none of them have worked since we got the tractor in the 90’s) The old amp gauge had a ring at the back which the wire ran through, but the new gauge has two connectors at the back. I am not sure how to connect this new gauge, I would presume not cutting the wire and installing the amp gauge inline?

I am a newbie to restoration/mechanics/electrics. So any guidance would be very much appreciated

[henk]

Welcome blueorange,

I've also had to put a new one in. I've cut the wire in two and connected it with the point and it works fine. I would rater had an induction model but that was not available at the time.
Check the volt regulator when you have the dash open. The old model is a bit fragile.

[oehrick]

What Henk said, plus if the meter reads 'backwards' when you connect it, swap the wire ends to the opposite terminals, when cutting the wire check you have enough to connect either way round......

I keep putting off fitting my new regulator and dismantling the lighting / ignition switches, the wiring is a right rats nest and the insulation has gone crispy in places.........

[Blueorange]

Thank you Henk and Oehrick!!

This has really helped. I shall get cracking with installing the ammeter then.

With the voltage regulator, I believe it’s the original. Is it worth replacing to be safe rather than sorry? The rest of the wiring is only a few years old and the tractor is an excellent starter!

Good luck with your own rewiring Oehrick.

Thanks again

[henk]

Just check it and when IT is ok Just leave it.

[Blueorange]

Thanks Henk will do

[oehrick]

Should have suggested, if you have them, use soldered or well crimped 'banjo' connectors rather than rely on the nuts holding the wire ends, soldering a loop in the wire ends is a decent solution in the absence of 'banjo's

As for my wiring job, expect to hear screaming at some point

[Blueorange]

Oehick that is a great suggestion. I was planning on using banjos, so thanks for confirming it’s the best solution.

Haha when I hear the screams i’ll know your’ve started your rewiring!!