My ammeter goes crazy when i'm on the gas it discharges, keeping speed on level ground it jumps back and forth, and off the gas it charges. sometimes it works fine, I think its a bad connection but i havn't found one.

 

Check your output at the battery and alternator with a known good digital volt meter at differant engine rpm's. If you still see the voltage erratic, check the regulater, or my guess is, you have a slipping belt

 

I'd agree with the slipping belt diagnosis, but I've seen some funy business with engine grounds too. Check that the engine is properly grounded with a suitable sized cable to the cab and frame.