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View Full Version : Fusible links vs. in-line fuses vs. fuse blocks


1Lobo
05-04-2002, 07:22 AM
Hello again.
Now that I have figured out that a melted wire on the exhaust manifold was the cause to the fusible link burning up, I have another question.
How exactly are fusible links an advantage when compared with in-line fuses or fuse blocks?
I would think it would be easy just to hook wires into a fuse box and protect the electronics system that way. It would definitely be easier than swapping out fusible links.
If there really is no difference other than ease of use, then what amperage fuse should I be looking for? Especially for the link between the alternator and the battery. I have a 94 amp delco installed in the Jeep, so the amperage is higher than stock.
I have looked through a few threads in the history of the forum, but haven't found a clear cut answer to this question. I have looked at the manual for our 1995 car and notice that the alternator there is hooked straight into a fuse block, no fusible links. Any answers or thoughts on this sure would be appreciated.

oldyellowwagoneer
05-04-2002, 09:28 AM
The main reason for fusible links is that they dont blow out under short high amp draws(example: an electric motor starting from a dead stop draws more amps than when it is running)whereas a fuse would. This way you still have protection from a short but it allows for the momentary draw. A fuse block lets you run 1 power wire into the vehicle to be distributed to many things, whereas if you just ran inline fuses you'd need a seperate power wire ran for eact thing you wanted to power. DENNIS