There are 2 posts that stick out of the back of the volt meter gauge. The wires are held on with a 3/8 nut on each that's what sparks , is that what you are referring to when you say tie them together?
yes, if they spark you have a short to ground somewhere, you will need to find it. You said volt meter gauge. is it a volt meter gauge or a Amperage meter gauge? they ARE different.
