Cluster fuse blows when connected
 

2006 f150 stx 4.6 v8, 160k.


Hey all, first post here .

So I just got this truck used. it runs great after plugs and coils, and a power steering line replaced.

Then the cluster died .

So I replace the fuse, and it did good for a while, but now when I replace the fuse it blows immediately .

The black with green wire is not shorted, and the cluster only blows when I attach the left side connections on top of the cluster itself . The right side let's it power up .


I've attached a link to a video so you can see what I mean.

The cluster itself is new salvage from a running perfect truck that got read ended .

If I have ruled out a short in the black/green, and the cluster itself isn't broken, why is my fuse still blowing?! I must be shorted somewhere else but I dont know which wires(if any) are supposed to carry voltage when the connector is disconnected.

Does anyone have any advice?


Thanks!

-merv.

https://youtu.be/LxoCDxAfodk

Sounds like bad solder joints in the cluster.

In two separate clusters doing identical things?

I don't doubt it's possible but my gut is telling me that one of these wires off the left connector is shorted. I just dont know which to follow.

Time to start getting a DMM out and do some continuity testing.

How about when the cluster is disconnected completely. Does it still blow?

No the thing only blows when both connectors are plugged in. The video I linked shows it . It doesn't blow with the passenger side connector plugged in .

It helps if you identify the specific fuse by its designator since there are a number of fuses that connect to the cluster.

Fuse #21. 15 amp mini.