MTFCA Forum

Where is the best location for a fuse to address possible shorts?

The 'best' is likely nearest the battery voltage source, so put it on the yellow wire coming off the foot button starter switch.


Or the 'best' for handy use is on that big yellow wire, but at the terminal block. That way you can just take apart the fuse holder, don't have to remove the fuse, just separate it, and all power to the dash is voided.

It might be good for new recruits and entertaining for others to hear the seasoned among us, relate what SIZE (amperage) fuses to use in the previously mentioned/shown fuse holder.

Let the debate begin......

It would be convenient to add a fuse at both locations. As to fuse rating, electrical load and wire size should determine that.

Mine is under the car next to the starter button. Jim Patrick

Debates, disagreements, for the great minds are only a moment in time. If no fuse is used.., it is not a smoke check but a condition of very small particles of black carbon a drift in the atmosphere. Just like the term.., "Flash Light" or "Torch" in the UK. Like what were you thinking...., It is a "Darkness Penetrator"!

Hank

Get Fuz-E-Liminator now! Instantly turn that unsightly, confusing nest of wires under your hood into shining beads of real copper! Impress your friends with blue fire and thick puffs of white smoke! ..... Fits all cars..... $2.98.. Order NOW* ! * Use only as directed. Not responsible for uncontrolled combustion, insurance cancellations, citations, or tow bills.

I think Ron Patterson is pretty good with electrical stuff. He says put a 25 amp fuse where the yellow wire connects to the starter switch.

Mine is under the hood like in picture #3. Easily accessible. I have 25amp and 30 amp fuses in the box, but if Ron said 25 amp, that is what I have.

If you do happen to let the smoke out of your wires, they have been making a smoke machine for a while. They are not cheap, but can help if you've made this mistake. Just search for 'smoke machine' in your search engine.

TXGOAT2 wrote: ↑

Mon May 02, 2022 10:40 pm

It would be convenient to add a fuse at both locations. As to fuse rating, electrical load and wire size should determine that.

Why 2 fuses in the same wire?

Never have had an issue with Ford's original design.

which is precisely why FORD products still do not have fuses

I've been playing with electronics since I was a kid, had a Ham license for over 50 years. Fuses are installed to protect wires carrying substantial current. For my T, I chose to install an automotive circuit breaker in the equivalent of the "yellow" wire mentioned previously. Maybe Ford chose not to use them, but as someone who has seen the results of a melted wire, I see no issue with using one. My '17 never had an electrical system per se... I've installed a starter, electric LED headlights, sidelights and tail lights, so I've felt free to design an electrical system that suits my needs.

Until it happens and burns to the ground.., the non believers will never change. I think the most intelligent of people believe in a proactive approach. Now let’s see how many read all those pink elephant clauses and annual “changes to your policy” fliers with your premiums for antique car insurance. Car fire clause…,”Vehicle most have protective measures in prevention of fires, ie, fuse/and/or quick accessibility to disconnect battery power”. Don’t forget.., must carry a modern and size appropriate ABC fire extinguisher!

Now go and fight their lawyers in the court of law with your cheap lawyer…., claim denied!

Hank

Hank

Well stated

Pulled these photos off the forum in the past. And I've experienced the amp wire burning in my first T, as teen. No fun to see smoke coming from behind the dash!

And, the original F.A system for battery start included a FUSE in that Yellow wire!

Don't know why it wasn't kept in the circuit for later Ts. Guess Henry wanted to save a few pennies, or else felt anyone who wanted a battery in his magneto Ford to fend for themselves

Personnally I have a Master Disconnect Switch on all my T's. This disconnects all electrical circuits with a flip of a lever and eliminates battery drain, prevents fires, and guards against theft. Mounts anywhere. UL approved for 6 or 12 volt batteries, Heavy duty. I bought it at Lang's

I mounted a master disconnect switch. It's under the seat and I cannot get to it while seated so if anything were to short-circuit while driving a fuse would still be a handy thing to have installed and protecting the circuit.