Classic/Antique Car Repair: 29 Model A ammeter, wire insulation, current cut

Question
1929 Model A, ammeter started glowing and wire insulation smoked. Replaced ammeter and when I connect the battery the new ammeter needle is pinned "Discharge".  ????????

Thanks!

Answer
You have a direct short somewhere or the current cut out relay on the generator is stuck in the on position. Disconnect the wire to it and try it to see what happens. If that does not do it disconnect a circuit at a time until you reach the offending system, and then chase from there.
Brad