normal operating loads are on the alternator side of the ammeter. You will NEVER see them in the ammeter. If you are seeing a slight charge on the ammeter odds are it's one of two things, someone added a draw to the battery or the ammeter is off.
CORRECT!!!
The ammeter indicates current flow to and from the battery. A constant charge indication means the battery is constantly receiving current and potentially being overcharged. This could be due to a draw on the battery side of the circuit or voltage drops between the battery, alternator output and voltage regulator sense line. As designed the battery supplies current when the alternator is not sufficient due to low idle speed, high draw accessories, or when starting.
