Other Truck Help - Cartridge Fuse Problem

[gchemist]

Hey Gang,
I need some help with my other truck. I posted a similiar message at a Mopar forum and have had no replies. Observations - those guys over there do not have the experience we have with better/older trucks. I'm posting this message here in hopes you fellas I've helped or will someday can help me with this one.

Here is my problem. On my way back to work from lunch, my truck completely shuts down. The engine will not crank, all the instrument cluster will not light up and the radio will not work. I traced the problem to the cartridge fuse located on driver fender under the hood. These fuses replaced the fusable links used in older model trucks. I replaced the "iginition 40 amp" fuse and as soon as I turned the ignition switch the fuse was blown again. Tried a second time and the fuse was "blown" as soon as I turned the ignition switch. Any ideas on where to start troubleshooting this problem? Could it be the single module engine controller (SMEC) is bad? Grounded alternator?

I had a similiar problem years ago, but the engine would crank. The dealer had to change the computer chip and something else that I can not remember.

Mean while, I've had to put my BAD BOW back together to drive around. I had it all taken apart on the inside. I've painted the door panels and all the interior trim. Looks good too. I just need to put it back in along with the new dash.


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gchemist
1983 Custom Truck
TX Plates: "BAD BOW"
http://www.geocities.com/abetterchemist/

[crossy]

assuming it is a Mopar truck you are talking about if it is ald enough to have an Amp gauge it could be bad .reach up and tie the wires together bypassing gauge .On older Mopars everything electrical has to pass through the amp gauge ,DAVE