Ignition Fuses Blowing

[miketa23]

Hello,

I just bought a 1998 Four Winns Horizon QX with a Volvo Penta 4.3 and it tends to blow ignition fuses sporatically and only when I turn the key to start the engine. I can hear the starter click and then nothing because the fuse is blown. I have looked at the wires under the dash and in the engine compartment and they all look nice and clean. Could this be the starter and how can I test this? Also if I use a 15amp fuse it seems to work but I obviously would like to get a 10amp working since that is what is supposed to be used for the ignition.

Thanks! Mike

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Ignition Fuses Blowing

Has something been added to the boat that may have been connected to this circuit. Yes -- stranger things have been done. A solenoid drawing too much current can pop the fuse but the starter itself will not since it gets its power through the solenoid which is nothing more than a switch.

 

[miketa23]

Re: Ignition Fuses Blowing

Hi,

No nothing has been added it is a stock setup. The radio does not work but I have disconnected that to rule it out and the fuse still popped. I'm guessing it's the starter solenoid but I'd like to try to find a way to confirm it before I go ahead and remove the starter.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Ignition Fuses Blowing

I'm guessing it's the starter solenoid but I'd like to try to find a way to confirm it before I go ahead and remove the starter.

Ayuh,... Disconnect it,+ see,.... I rather doubt it though...

 

[ENSIGN]

Re: Ignition Fuses Blowing

Insert the test leads of a ampmeter in place of the fuse and measure the current.Your problem sounds like moisture has gotten into the solinod.

 

[miketa23]

Re: Ignition Fuses Blowing

This turned out to be my electric fuel pump. Pump finally died and I replaced it and no more ignition fuse issues.