1969 F100 Instrument Cluster Lights not working, getting half power to the fuse box

[Cmd314]

You were right the fuses were blowing. I tested there ohms and I got no reading. All my good fuses read some amount of resistance.

[Cmd314]

Now my short to ground is a ground part of the lighting system not in another circuit correct?

[Ranchero50]

No, if it was the ground side your fuse would live and the lights would light. You've managed to ground out the hot side from the fuse somewhere. That's what is blowing the fuses.

[Thipdar]

I just bought more fuses to see -and no luck same problem. I tried different amp fuses, nothing. The power is transferred through the fuse to the other side correct? This literally worked a week ago and nothing was messed with. How can I check if it's the bulbs in the gauges? But that wouldn't explain the no power issue. I'm lost and frustrated.

Changing from the specified amperage rating to a higher amperage fuse is a really BAD idea.

It can make the circuit protect the fuse, instead of the other way around.

[Ranchero50]

Yes, the fingertip ammeter paper clip method proved out that the fuses were overloading.

[Cmd314]

So...i found the problem. I did have the power to ground issue. All the new gauges have a power and ground wire from the bulb except the tach, it was supposed to have only power to the gauge post, no ground. but i had a ground wire attached to the power post as well. What a stupid goose chase haha thanks for your help Ranchero!

[Ranchero50]

Told ya.

Good on ya for finding it. Now come over here and help get this power steering box back in my truck. Then we'll bend and double flare the new brake lines and mount the '94 F350 master cylinder...

[Thipdar]

Told ya.

Good on ya for finding it. Now come over here and help get this power steering box back in my truck. Then we'll bend and double flare the new brake lines and mount the '94 F350 master cylinder...

Wish I was closer... I'd fire up the BBQ and drink beer while you guys work