Panel Relay fuse blows at key on

[clark_bailey]

Panel relay 10 amp fuse blows at key switch on instantly. fuel gauge not working, coolant temp not working. Engine cranks, runs good, however engine will not shut off with key. must pull manual fuel shut down. So in the manual I see no panel relay. I don't know how to read an electrical schematic well enough to trace it back to a part? Any help is appreciated. 1999 L3710 4wd

 

[torch]

I don't have that machine or a schematic for that machine, so I cannot be of specific help. However, here's a little tip that can help in the troubleshooting process: replace the fuse with a small 12v lightbulb. Solder a pair of wires to any available 12v bulb and crimp a male spade connector on the end of each to plug into the fuse connections.

As long as the short circuit continues, the light will be on -- but the bulb itself will protect the wiring from over current so you are safe. As soon as you find and correct the short circuit, the bulb will go out (or at least, become dim). Sometimes you can even isolate the short circuit simply by wiggling wires while watching the bulb. More often you will have to disconnect items on that circuit one by one until the light goes out, but at least you know when you find it without burning dozens of fuses.

 

[clark_bailey]

That's a great tip. I tried similar deal using my test light today. the red wire yellow stripe with silver dots is the wire that's shorted somewhere between the fuse and the gauges. I followed wire from fuse to the instrument cluster just now but how do I check the gauges?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

A test light is very poor at checking for shorts as any device that uses a coil like gauges will look like a short.

Post a picture of the schematic or Email me a copy of it (click on my name in orange on the right) and I can tell you where to look.

 

[clark_bailey]

I do not have the schematic, I wish I did

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

In that case you need to get the WSM, it should have a schematic in it, and it will have the troubleshooting to get to the bottom of the issue.

 

[clark_bailey]

had a bad shut down relay and glow relay got it fixed now