Radio blew fuse to ignition. Best alternative to fix problem?

[volleybiggs]

I just replaced the radio that was in my Glastron for one with an Ipod hook up. I wired it up the same exact way the previous radio was. Hot wire and Ignition wire to the Hot wire from the battery. and Negative wire to a Negative wire I guess to the battery.

It was running fine both the radio and boat but I hit some waves the new radio was not secured well and it began to come loose from the back and then pretty much came out. When that happened the ignition fuse blew and the engine cut off.

I guess my question is did this happen due to the radio coming loose or should I hook the negative wire to that black wire or should I screw into the metal beam the stearing wheel is attached too. I have replaced lots of radios in my cars and usually blow a fuse when the negative and postive wires connect. This time I am sure that did not happen since they were sealed and covered in tape. When the engine cut off I unhooked all the wires to the radio and they were hard as heck to undo.

I was so Lucky I had extra Fuses!! otherwise I would have had to get a tow. Note to everyone keep extra fuses onboard.

Thanks for your ideas,
Jim

 

[pheasanthunter]

Re: Radio blew fuse to ignition. Best alternative to fix problem?

You should attach a backstrap to the stereo. Don't just use the faceplate to support the unit. Boats are pretty rough riding. You shorted your wiring when the stereo fell out. Hook the ground to the best ground you can find, probably the black wire. In a boat I doubt if the metal beam is grounded as it would be in a car. Boats are usually fiberglass instead of metal.