65amp wiring/trouble shooting
I've already put in a new VR and the new battery isn't overcharging, but I still need to check all those things you've talked about here I guess.
And that might have been it.
But yes check things out.
Make sure the green wire from the alternator to the regulator is not accidentally getting grounded to the chassis or engine.
Look at the connectors mentioned before.
Then do a running check of the voltage is being regulated.
The ammeter only shows whether electrons are moving in or out of the battery.
Test whether the voltage stays in the acceptable range when there are other loads and when the rpm is increased.
I think you mentioned someone had a multi-meter so take advantage of that and make sure there will be no problems when driving that could have been avoided. The battery is just one of many items that will draw more current when power is at higher voltage. That can cause lights to burn out, circuit breakers, and fuses to open, etc.
If the output voltage of the alternator stays below 15 even when lights and other items are turned on, and engine speed is increased to 1200 or 1500 rpm, then everything is working.