Battery cut off switch

Doug, I don't believe that is true if you use a 4 post (DPST) switch and a three wire alternator. The entire reason for doing so is to avoid a separate (hot) alternator line back to the battery

A "one wire" setup might be a different matter.

But your post brings up one of my favorite "fake" testing procedures, that is, do NOT ever remove a battery connection on a running engine.

The way it was explained to me...to the best I remember....was that when if you pull the field wire off the alternator while it is energized & spinning it will have some charge left in the windings that HAS to go somewhere.....Not looking for an argument...perhaps I will call hm again when I get a chance?