I have done the solid state upgrade before, and yes it is better electronics. My point being, sometimes it is better to get the car back to spec/factory and working properly, so you know what you are working with, especially when the OP admits that wiring is not his specialty.
In my time playing with Mopars, I have never had to replace or change from a factory ammeter. Or the MAD conversion. The key to having ammeter issues is to make sure the 2 wires to the back of it are tight. But like I said, I have never had an issue with an ammeter, bulk head connector, etc. Just lucky I guess.
