Nope! You'll toast the ammeter when you try to crank it. If you pull the alternator wire and put the meter in-line you'll fry it when the alternator "spikes" as it receives voltage. Inductive or high amperage in-line is the only way to check (high amperage in-line must be able to handle the cranking amps). Inductive aren't as accurate but you're just looking for a charge indication.