Things You'll Need
Wire cutting pliers
Wire stripping pliers
Fuse holder
Butt-splice crimp connectors
Crimping pliers
Appropriate amperage rated fuse
Fuses protect electrical devices by providing a breaking point that will interrupt the flow of electricity in a circuit when an excess current develops. This current generates excess heat, and the range of heat tolerance depends on the components and the size of the conductor--wire--used in the circuit. Electronic devices not equipped with fused circuit protection can have an external fuse holder wired into the circuit. The do-it-yourself person can install a fuse holder in 15 minutes with a few tools and a new fuse holder.
Step 1
Disconnect the electrical power source to the device.
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Step 2
Cut the positive--or "hot"--wire as near to the power source as possible using the wire cutting pliers.
Step 3
Strip 1/4-inch off each end of the separated wires with the wire stripping pliers.
Step 4
Strip 1/4-inch off each of the wires on the ends of the fuse holder. Be sure to hold each wire firm when stripping to avoid stress on the fuse holder's internal connections.
Step 5
Twist the end of the wire from the power source in either direction creating a helical, or spiral, form. This helps to make the stripped ends firm for connecting.
Step 6
Insert the twisted wire from the power source into one end of the butt-splice crimp connector and crimp tightly with the crimping pliers.
Step 7
Insert the twisted wire from the power source into one end of the butt-splice crimp connector and crimp tightly with the crimping pliers.
Step 8
Twist the end of either side of the fuse holder's leads and insert it into the other end of the butt-splice connector. Crimp down tightly on the connector with the pliers.
Step 9
Check both ends of the butt-splice for a firm connection.
Step 10
Twist the wire leading to the electrical device to make it firm and insert it into a butt-splice connector. Crimp down tightly on the connector with the crimping pliers.
Step 11
Twist the wire leading from the other half of the fuse holder and insert it into the other end of the butt-splice attached to the wire leading to the device. Crimp down tightly on the connector with the crimping pliers.
Step 12
Insert the properly rated amperage fuse into the fuse holder. Connect the two halves by compressing them together and then twisting to lock into place.
Step 13
Restore the electrical power to the device.
Tip
Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the device to ensure the properly rated amperage fuse is used in the circuit.
Always wire fuse holders as close as possible to the power source. This protects wiring from overheating before the fuse interrupts the circuit.
Warning
Never use a fuse with a higher-than-rated amperage in an electrical circuit. Always adhere to manufacturer recommendations.
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