How much can ammeter handle?

[nsmall]

Thanks guys.  Really appreciate your time.  Everything you said makes sense.   

[dodj]

  That's why I'd use two links or two fuses.

IMO, thats overkill. The factory still does not fuse the o/p of the alt and the alt is no longer a source once it stops spinning. What you say is definitely possible though and the extra fuse would give you a little more protection.
I just consider it a very 'low probability' event. If the grounding event ever happened, it would likely stall the car - stopping the source, and if it didn't - you turn off the key and the source is gone.
The battery end has to be fused though because that source cannot be 'turned off'.

[MOPAR MITCH]

This is good info...

[BIGSHCLUNK]

Personally I would not worry about the meter.... BUT check the wire terminal at #18 at the fire wall block....

scroll thru this and look at mine...

https://forum.e-bodies.org/your-restoration-project-roseville-moparts/10/i-finally-got-out-to-the-garage-crimping-woes/6702/

[gzig5]

I found this article helpful when I was first clued into the ammeter issue.  It's on the list of things to do.  I'm afraid to touch any wiring at this point before I've proven that the car will start/run reliably.

http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/amp-gauges.shtml