radio shorting out

[loves2skate]

I need some help. I have a 850 volvo 96. The first time the radio went out was after I blew the horn. I replaced the fuse. Blew again when I went over a bump. Replaced the fuse again with a stronger fuse. Blows after about an hour for no reason. I have replaced the fuse under the hood and under the dash.

Is it a short in the wiring? Do I need a new radio?

I am not very car smart, so can you dumb it down with the advice.

[steve]

Yes, it is likely a short to ground of the power wire from the fuse that you keep replacing. You need to consult your owners manual to find out what accessories that particular fuse and wiring circuit supplies power to. Then closely inspect the wire harness between that fuse and those accessories. Look for broken or frayed wires, missing insulation that covers those wires and bare wires. Pay particular attention to anyplace those wires come in contact with anything sharp or abrasive that could rub off or cut the outer cover of the wires.

It is generally not a good idea to use a stronger fuse in any circuit. It is best to find the cause of the blown fuse before replacing it again.

What you are likely to find is an area of wire that has had its insulation compromised thus exposing bare wire. That wire when it touches a grounded metal surface causes it to draw alot of current; So much current that it exceeds the current limit on the fuse and causes the fuse to burn out.

Find out what that particular fuse powers first, and go from there.

Let me know what you find.