Fuseable links

[kcope]

Would it be a good idea to install fuseable links in the car? I've noticed I dont have any. Do they have different amperages?
Seems like cheap insurance.

[kcope]

kaaaaaaaaa-thunk

[RoninLB]

I'm not up on the fusable links.. but they come in different amps

[kcope]

hummmm I'd have to figure out the amprage.

[cowtown]

Are these like fuses but handle more power? My old '95 300ZX Turbo had a bunch of these...you might wander over to www.twinturbo.net and ask there if you're looking for suppliers and amperage ratings. There are some knowledgeable guys (and also a bunch of punk kids) over there.

Please share whatever you find out - I'm interested in this stuff.
Colin

[RoninLB]

Originally posted by kcope
hummmm I'd have to figure out the amprage.

I would use a 10amp fuse for a 7amp load.. and I would investigate marine grade.. but there in auto supply stores..

what do you want to use the links for?.....Ron

[TerryBPP]

I think your talking about the fuse that are in the wire. If you are they are good insurance for gauges and the radio. I don't know where else you could put them.

[cowtown]

Originally posted by TerryBPP
I don't know where else you could put them.

I'd be interested in the best way to put a fuse on my rear-mounted fuel pump and maybe even the starter hot lead. My '75 does not have these, and I think it's a fire hazard.

Unless I'm going completely nutty, I know the Nissan "fusible links" were discrete socketed components that (I believe) handled more power than standard auto fuses.

[911pcars]

Regular fuses are easier to replace (and inspect) than a length of fusible link in a wire harness.

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

[kcope]

Auto zone carries them.
Right now if theres an overload in any of my circuits, a fuse blows. However if I have a short circuit between the battery and the fuse panel, the wire will be unprotected and will heat till it melts. Not a very good thing, Trust me.

[911pcars]

This is where many manufacturers place their fusible links too (between battery and fuse box). However, I think they use fusible links for cost savings. A replaceable master fuse will also work in this situation. Wouldn't this be easier to service?

Sherwood

[kcope]

Yes a master fuse would do nicely.
I got a E mail today from P.A.P. about parts cars. Every car except one was burnt. It got me thinking.
http://www.germanautodismantlers.com/broadcast/air.asp
Just think of how many fuses you've popped, every one was a potiental fire.

[cowtown]

The cable that really worries me isn't so much the one to the fuse panel (though that's a good one to protect, I'm sure), it's the big thick "always-on" cable running from Battery +12, back to the starter, and then on to the Alternator. Would there be any way to fuse this cable, or is the current draw from the starter just too big to fuse?

Kcope, sorry I've changed the subject a bit...say the word and I will start a new thread.

Colin

[kcope]

That would be a heck of a melt down. Any circuit can be protected, maybe its not practical for the starter wire. A seperate solenoid mounted close to the battery would have been a better solution. My triumphs are set up that way.
I don't know why the fuel pump and the ignition are not fused.
We might be getting into a redesign of the electrical system now.
I've seen 12 circuit fuse blocks 4 1/2" X 5" in one of my car catalogs 2 of them would cover all circuits and would be a nice upgrade.

[RoninLB]

Originally posted by kcope

Any circuit can be protected, maybe its not practical for the starter wire. I don't know why the fuel pump and the ignition are not fused. We might be getting into a redesign of the electrical system now...all circuits and would be a nice upgrade.

IMO, this is serious stuff.. I use a marine 8 circut breaker panel for headlights, power seats, audio amp, aux. alarm compressor, etc.. everything else is doable w/high end CB, IMO.. maybe do a search w/my sign in name and circut breakers for more info.....Ron