Fusible Link Replacment

[rodrju]

Hello:

Unfortunately my drive the other evening ended with the Diplomat being towed the remaining 1.5 miles to the house.

A blown fusible link caused the engine to die and a rather large backfire that managed to take out the entire muffler.

The fusible link in question is on the left front wheelhouse. (See photos) and is part of a group of links the combine into one.

The one that blew obvious has something to do with ignition—as I do not even have crank with out it.

Also unfortunate, it burned so completely that no wire exists where it entered the factory plastic splice.

So:

1) Replacement options

Must I replace it with fusible link—or I can replace with an inline fuse?

2) I believe I found what MAY have caused it to blow—a spade connector wire that use to run the carb kicker that I had taped up was touching the firewall.

Any other thoughts on why this could have happened ?

What would be the best way to replace?

This car does have a lean burn conversion to conventional Mopar electric ignition.

Thanks

 

[volare 1977]

If you find that wasn`t the short that caused your blown link then I would check the ignition switch connector at the the base of the steering column. Many times they melt and short out and cause problems like yours. I would replace with a fuse link if possible. Also make sure you use the correct size link wire when replacing . My understanding is a standard fuse won`t work well. Some people have used a slow burn in place but I have never tried one. I have seen fuse links for sale on ebay so you may want to check there if you can`t find any locally.

 

[Mikes5thAve]

You can try a fuse but they used to use fusible link because they don't blow like fuses with quick spikes. Oddly they make the fusible links harder to replace like that. You can get them at Napa and some other part stores.