Fuseable links - Ford Forums

EDXR8 · 04-28-2003, 03:21

I want to get rid on the fuseable links in the engine bay and replace them with fuses, just to get rid of all the wires. Anyone know the amperage of these fuseable links?

mongrelEB · 04-28-2003, 03:43

Can't help thinking fuses would take up more space than the wires....

EDXR8 · 04-28-2003, 03:50

I am running a drycell battery that the fuseable links can't hook up to (different battery post). Also 2 or 3 of the fuseable links are basically had it so I was going to run one wire to behind the battery where I can place a distribution block with fused outputs.

mongrelEB · 04-28-2003, 04:02

Sounds like a plan.
Post some pics when you're done - I might do it :)
Ah the joys of shamelessly pirating other people's ideas....

maco65 · 04-28-2003, 05:24

I think the fusable links generaly have a higher amp rating. Not to sure I could be wrong, but thats the way I always new it. You may be able to find some of the fusable links that may be able to be changed with fuses. But there will still be some that require the fusable link (ones that are around 60 - 100 Amp).

Alex

Aussiblue · 04-28-2003, 05:31

No; and something tells me replacing the links with fuses is illegal and perhaps not so practicable. I think the problem is that fusible links are less sensitive than fuses; a link will need a high current for some time before it fails; even slow blow fuses fail quickly in comparison. And I guess links cost more than fuses so if Ford could have used a fuses or circuit breaker instead I think they would have. I will have to do a Google search and investigate this further though. BTW There are four fusible links in the car altogether: HEGO sensor, 2 for instruments, alternator and lighting circuits, I for fuel injection system.

Aussiblue · 04-28-2003, 05:37

If it's safe and legal circuit breakers might save you a bit in the cost of replacement fuses.

EDXR8 · 04-28-2003, 05:51

Okay, I have been searching the net and found that you can replace fuseable links with fuses BUT fuseable links are much more reliable for heavy current applications over a long period of time (10+ years). Fuses or circuit breakers are safer than fuseable links, in that they will trip much quicker and protect better.

Aussiblue · 04-28-2003, 06:11

This might be a better option http://www.littelfuse.com/PDFs/TechBriefs/TB98-003.pdf
seems to be the best of both worlds.

Yes; I also found that various sites noted that fusible links are used where the need for circuit reliablity exceeded the need for rapid circuit protection or where high initial inrush loads (starting and charging circuits) might cause frequent fuse failures if fuses were used.

Aussiblue · 04-28-2003, 06:18

Hmmm from http://www.picocanada.com/catalogue/8612-8618.html

"Fusible Links are designed to "open" a circuit when an extreme overload occurs, preventing damage to entire wire harness.

Fusible Links are NOT intended to be used in place of a fuse, but rather in conjunction with a fuse."