Automotive fuses are used to protect the wiring and electrical equipment for vehicles. They are the weakest link in the chain for good reason. Fortunately, they are very easy to test and to replace. For testing and replacement, the following parts are needed:
Continuity Tester
Electricity needs a continuous circuit in order to flow. It's like two way traffic from point A to point B and back. If one or both of the lanes are jammed, then the electricity flow stops. A continuity tester is useful for checking cords and wires to make sure they can conduct electricity.
In order to test for continuity, follow the following steps:
- Disconnect the cord from the power source.
- Attach the alligator clip to one prong of the cord.
- Touch the tip of the continuity tester to the other prong. If there is continuity, the tester will light up. If not, it won't.
Multimeter
Also called a volt-ohmmeter or VOM is another way of testing continuity. It measures the amount of alternating current or direct current in a live circuit. It can also check voltage.
Soldering Gun and Solder
Fuses are clipped and soldered in the fuse box. After substantial overloading, the fuses tend to open up from their place. Instead of replacing the entire fuse wire, the wire can be again put to the original place with the help a soldering gun. This is a tool for soldering metals using lead-tin-based solder to achieve a highly conductive contact. The tool uses a pistol shape. Used generally for such applications where the soldering station can not reach.
