fuse blew on the PCM then the new one blew soon as the key turned on--could it be a short or would the PCM be gone? Anyone ever heard of this.

 

While I can't say for sure that's the issue with yours, my Bronco did the same thing and I had to put another unit in it. FWIW, I got mine already programmed at NAPA. You'll need the VIN, engine, YM info to order one. If you have an alarm on it, disconnect it before buying a PCM and try it again. Alarms have been known to cause issues with the earlier units.

 

do you have any aftermarket wiring that is connected to an ignition source anywhere? I ran into this problem and while back and it was the ignition wiring running my intercooler pump. it was wore through on a bolt head, and every big bump id hit while driving would blow it. talk about a PITA to find that one.

 

I'll check those things out
thanks

 

After searching old threads on fuse 24 blowing Ifound a wire harness slightly melted on the passenger side exhaust manifold. One wire was grounding out. Taped it up --problem solved. Although it was about 8 hours on the truck and 2 on the computer
Thanks to all who gave there help on this somewhat common problem.

 

In hindsight, it usually helps to name the fuse by number since that's how the service manual and drawings identify them. Usually, you can easily find previous threads about specific fuse-protected circuits by plugging the fuse number, for example, "F24", in to the SEARCH tool.

Glad you found it!