<VV> Post on wiring / carb backfire

[NicolCS@aol.com]

Fusible links are fine retrofits Joe, however IMHO a Maxi-fuse is  better.  
Here's why.  A fusible link is nothing more than a piece of  wire that's four 
sizes smaller than the line it's feeding, insulated with  higher melting temp 
insulation.  When they fail, sometimes you can't tell  (failure is internal to 
the insulation) and it's a cut-and-splice operation  to get back in business. 
OTOH, a Maxi-fuse (or Mega-fuse) fails in a visible  way, similar to an ATO 
fuse (they're just bigger versions of the same thing) and  replacement is no 
more bother than plugging-in an ATO fuse.  Also, the  Maxi-fuse is easily 
unplugged when you want to service something or park for a  few months without fear 
of battery drain (similar to a disconnect). Through  removal, the Maxi also 
doubles as an anti-theft measure.  
 
FYI- $3 Maxi fuses are plug-in and fit into a $15 holder.  AFAIR,  their 
ratings range from 30 to 80 amps.  Mega-fuses start around 80  amps and range up 
to... 150?? and these bolt-into a $15 holder.  A  Maxi-fuse holder can be 
installed next to the existing junction block (little  red thingy) and the existing 
wires can be used without modification.
 
The nice thing about fuses in comparison to a circuit breaker is that if  you 
have a short, the fuse just opens and waits for you. The circuit breaker  wil
l keep resetting and re-energizing the shorted circuit.
Craig Nicol

 

This fusible link SOUNDS like an easy and worthwhile retrofit. Right  now,
I've added protection for this circuit on my 66 by a 40A circuit  breaker. No
trouble in several years. What's the feasibility/desirability of  a
fusible-link retrofit?