Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

[joseif]

Hi Guys (and Gals),

I have a problem with my main engine fuse blowing. I can typically start and run for about a minute, but as I lift my trim after getting on plane, the fuse will instantly blow. I think I may be drawing too much power by driving and lifting my trim at the same time. I've checked all of my wiring for shorts and have found none. I found that the kill switch isn't working, but that shouldn't make a difference should it? I wouldn't be surprised it the kill switch overheated by the same thing that's causing my main engine fuse to blow. I'm running a 1993 Johnson Fast Strike and I've never had this problem until now. Does anyone have any suggestions? They would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

Welcome to iboats!

Tip: Inspect the blown fuse. If the fuse element has melted, it's usually due to an over current condition (drawing too much current through the fuse). If the element is gone, and perhaps the fuse has turned black, it points to a sudden burst of current, as in a dead short (power lead touches ground), that vaporizes the fuse element.

My guess is an over current condition..

 

[dlkiller]

Re: Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

Have you checked your wiring with the engine trimmed down? Tilting your engine changes the position of the wires, and that might be causing a short.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

Are you using a 20 amp fuse?

The kill switch and stop circuit of the ignition are not part of the starter circuit; they are independent. If there is an apparent relationship in the problems, you may need to replace the ignition switch or at least troubleshoot the main harness wiring. .

 

[joseif]

Re: Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

Thanks for your responses guys.

I'm using a 20 amp fuse and it doesn't appear to be overly impacted by the force of the current. In other words, the fuse link is simply split; no extreme melting or blackness. I've checked the wiring with the trim in multiple positoins, including all of the harnesses, and I'm not detecting anything at all. One of things that has me confused is if I'm drawing too much power, why am I just now having a problem, and never before? The only equipment I've had installed was a few weeks ago when I had my steering housing and cables replaced. That shouldn't have affect my electronics should it?

 

[ezeke]

Re: Main Engine Fuse Keeps Blowing.

You may want to try swapping the relays on your Tilt and Trim. If the symptoms change, replace the relays.