Hi, I'm new to this forum, but it seems like there is a lot of knowledge here so hopefully someone can help me.

2001 F150 SuperCrew Lariat 4x4 Auto

Problem:
#15 fuse(5a) in passanger compartment (under steering wheel)
pwr windows, interior lights, wipers all do not work when this fuse blows. Also I can not shift out park once the truck is cranked if this fuse is out.

if the truck is off and i replace the fuse it blows immediately. if the truck is cranked and i replace the fuse, it will last anywhere from an hour to a couple of days then it will blow again.

I've checked all my wires on the aftermarket radio. All seem fine none are bare.

Also the carpet is not wet so I don't think it is the leaking problem that seems to be fairly common.

I did recently get a new exhaust put on, including taking off all 4 cats and replacing with 2 magnaflow cats. All O2 Sensors were put back in place. I'm not sure if this would have anything to do with it or not, but there it is anyway.

any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance

 

Central Junction Box (CJB) Fuse F15 supplies ALWAYS HOT power to only two places: The Brake Pedal Position (BPP) switch (Normally Open contact)and the GEM module.

The output of the BPP switch (when the pedal is pressed) is distributed to a number of places including the shift actuator.

The feed to the GEM module is used by the GEM module for operating power, including when the ignition is OFF. The GEM module controls a variety of features, including all the convenience features you mentioned.


I would not suspect that there is any relationship between either your audio system or exhaust work and this fault.

The leaky windshield syndrome usually does not get the carpet wet. I would suspect that this is the most likely reason for your fault and that the GEM module is causing the short circuit that is blowing F15.

Steve

 

Ok I would assume that if the gem is wet or has been it will be rusted or corroded. Where is it located? is it actually attached to that fuse block or is it somewhere else?

Thanks for the help.

 

riggs51, its located on the back of the fuse panel.
I just changed mine out last week. If your somewhat mechanical, its not too much.
I've got some pics (actually a lot) but I really don't know how to format/put together the pics for this sight. I've never tried it before.
I'll try to give a quick rundown.
You need to remove the lower kick plate(dash panel). I believe the panel around the stearing wheel also needs to be pulled off.
There are 2 bolts and 2 nuts that hold the fusepanel/GEM in place.
You will notice that it is attached to a bare /rusty metal frame piece.
It is attaced at the top and bottom with a simple friction connection. You push in either the top or bottom one and then slide the other one to the steering wheel side.
I found it easyist to unbolt the 2 large wire connectors first. (large many wire plugs on the lower rear.
On the left hand side are 3 plug in connectors.
I also removed the plugs that were in my way,( brake pedal, ignition plug,airbag plug)
My carpet was very wet from the leaking windshield. I couldn't tell where the leak came from until I climbed under the dash and actually unpluged the large block connector on the lower rear of the gem. I think it takes either an 8 or 10 mm socket.
Its a little time consumming, but not really that bad if you have a warm place to do it.
bullseye670..................

 

10mm socket for the two large plugs on the gem. Mine were white and brown. If you aren't well inclined, I wouldn't attempt it. It is rather complicated and an error here will lead to a disabled truck. This is the main junction of power to multiple functions of your truck.

Check your brake switch first, as it is easily accessible. Its at the top of the brake pedal mount bar, and is an offset connector. See if something is perhaps crossed there. The GEM is a pain in the @$$.

 

thanks for the responses, I'll give this a try tonight and post what i find. if it is the gem where can i buy another and how much?

 

I only had to clean up my connectors. You can find them on ebay, or at the scrap yards or the dealer for around 150 bucks.
Before reinstalling you might want to use a little dielectric grease on the plugs as a precaution.
bullseye670...........