1969 Amp gauge problem

[epetit]

Hey guys.
Need some advice here. Hope I am posting in the correct section.  I am trying to finish up on my 1969 Z and just got the engine fired up in the car after a complete teardown and body off restoration of everything and noticed the amp gauge is reading negative ? OER Console and gauge package, new dash, engine, and forward lighting harnesses. All other console and dash gauges are working correctly. Any and all help or hints would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

[ZLP955]

I believe that means the alternator is undercharging. Does the needle rise to zero (or higher) if you increase the engine revs?

[epetit]

I would think that too, but everything is new, alternator, battery, etc. ? Like I have something crossed ?

[ZLP955]

When you shut the engine off, does the ammeter go to zero? And then go to discharge (-ve) if you turn on the headlights?

[epetit]

Just ran out to the shop and checked. Battery connected everything in the off position the gauge is at 0. Turn the headlamps on and the gauge goes positive instead of negative?

[cook_dw]

Sounds like a neg & pos are swapped.  Or a ground not connected.

[epetit]

It has been awhile since I installed the console so is it possible the plug connection on the back of the gauge is plugged in wrong? Needs to be flipped? If this might be the issue, will the gauge cluster come out without removing the enitre console?
Thanks

[69pace]

Yup. Check battery with your multi meter first then swap the leads on the gauge.

[epetit]

Thanks.
I will check this tomorrow. Sure acts like I have the connector on the amp gauge plugged in wrong.