wiring problems

[lee66cj]

I keep blowing fuses for my instrument cluster/ dash lights. I am going to chase down the wires tonight but I was hoping y'all know of a common place the wires chafe or shorts occur in this circuit to speed my diagnosis.
BTW my GW is a 90' model. I bought it two weeks ago and swapped out the bad np229 for a np208 from a 80' j-10 and had the j-10 driveshaft shortened at a local shop to 42" for $42. That part is working well now.

Mileage is killing me though. I am averaging 9-10 in a jasper reman 360 with 5000 miles. I found a fuel leak but are there any remedies for getting 12-15 mpg on the cheap? I raised the air pressure to 40psi in the tires and will look into other options this weekeknd.

Thanks for the help!

Lee

[Michael]

I was able to get 12-15 with the Tfi upgrade when I was running the 2bbl carb. You may try that. I get 9-10 now with the 4bbl. Some say you do some say you don't. You will for sure get some performace increase by doing it. As far as your wiring, don't know. But I am sure some one will be here to help you.

[reddog]

I do not think that the stock wiring has any inherent problems. Problems are usually caused by some PO. I would look over the wiring for obvious problems but if none are found would check out the dimmer switch then the instrument board itself.

Milage issues start with the basic tune up items, then carb rebuild. AMC blocks are high nickel content but 5000 miles should be enough for a good break in. Double check for any more leaks including the return line.

Kerry

[lee66cj]

thanks for the info. The circuit for the instrument lights also controls the parking lights and I think there my be a problem in the taillights.

I will try the tfi upgrade when I get a little extra cash and the carb was supposedly rebuilt when the new engine was installed by the PO's mechanic.

thanks,

Lee

[Dan in Fairway]

Afew weeks ago my '89 was doing the same dash lights/clock/radio thing. We found that a connector from the overhead console, etc. at the rear pillar (I think you have to trace it) was eaten up with corrosion causing a short. When the machine was assembled they hooked the wiring harness together connecting the frame to the body wiring. The other thing was that the dash dimmer also operates the dimming on the overhead console so I know its all related. I hope this helps someone. -Dan

[chariot_chaser]

I am having some mileage problems as well (10mph on the highway). All stock 86 with a motorcraft 2150 carb. Seems the culprit is the power valve in the carb. If you look in the "oil pressure and carb mixture questions" thread you'll see some discussion on the topic. In short pull the vacuum hose on the bottom center front of the carb. If fuel leaks out you have a bad power valve and this will effect mpg.