How to read an amp gauge

I wrote it that way 'cause if the OP or as you say, anyone else, sees the ammeter peg out near 40 amps, its best they assume something big has gone wrong.
Better safe than sorry.

jonnyrose said

Yep they were backwards,all good now,and yes it goes to almost the c after starting and then goes to just above center when idling ,thanks for explaining how to read it, I have fusible links on either side under the hood,just in case something goes sideways,but it's cool having it function

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Glad that was it.

If the charging increases with engine speed, then it would be worth making some additional checks.
One is to make sure the voltage is not increasing with rpm to the point its above 15.0 V .
Another is make sure the voltage is not dropping below 12.8 or 13.0 V at idle with no accessories or lights on.

Final observation. In most systems just one fusible link is used. It should be between the battery and the firewall connector.
A second link is sometimes needed, but there ought to be a good reason for it. Otherwise its unneeded resistance to flow. Both itself and the extra connections.