So, while researching how to change the 140 amp fusible link “fuse” in the Sienna van model years 2011 and later, I came across this page. Since there is a gap in this response, I will fill it in here.
First, the initial issue: While changing my ac clutch (but that’s a different story), I shorted out the alternator/battery connection to ground. This caused the 140 amp fusible connection to blow (“FL Main” in Toyota wiring diagram parlance).
Observe that your Sienna will lock up if this occurs, leaving you without EPS, ABS, VCS, power windows or side mirrors, wipers, turn signals (although the hazards will still work), locked in park, air conditioning, a radio, etc. This is so that the May and LIN networks, as well as the internal fuse box, can be powered (my educated guess).
Although pricey, this little fusible link creature is difficult to replace (PN 9098208286).
So I took the following action:
1. I got the battery out.
2. A loose bracket for the ECU.
3. A loose headlamp on the driver’s side.
4. Dispose of the smaller ECU connector (to give more room to move the fuse box)
5. Unbolted the fuse box’s three screws.
6. I unplugged the other connector to something behind the headlamp and the ground connection.
7. Removed connections for the headlight bulbs.
8. Remove the two slip ties holding the wire bundles to the fuse box.
9. Trimmed the lock tabs on the fuse box locks by the entry to the main wire bundle.
10. Unlock the fuse holder assemblies and connectors and insert them into the fuse box using a tiny screwdriver.
The top of the fuse box can be moved out of the way by doing this. It’s beneficial to do this before dividing the fuse box. To allow the connector bases to press into the inside of the fuse box, the majority of the relays must be removed.
11. Unlocked the tabs securing the fuse box’s two halves using a flat-blade screwdriver and toothpicks.
12. Just enough space should be left between the fuse box’s top and bottom so that you can access the bolts holding the 140 amp fuse. Both bolts are 8 mm in diameter, one is 10 mm.
13. Change the 140 amp fuses connection.
14. Reassemble in the opposite direction.
In This Article...
Without the tool, how can an automobile fuse be removed?
A pair of tweezers might work. Look for tubular glass that has a black inside or that no longer has its filaments intact if you notice any. Use a bent paper clip or a small pair of pliers if you are unable to get it out with your fingers.
What fuse controls the alternator?
The primary, high-amperage fuse (or fusible link) between the alternator and the battery is what is typically meant when someone refers to the “alternator fuse,” though. The primary alternator fuse functions as a circuit protection device, just like any other fuse.
How is an internal fuse box removed?
On the driver’s lower left side is the inside fuse box. Pull the fuse box lid toward you and release the hinges to remove it. On the driver’s side, close to the rear of the engine compartment, is where you’ll find the under-hood fuse box. Push the indicated tabs to open it.
What symptoms indicate a blown fuse?
Take the fuse out of the holder. The fuse holder cap may occasionally need to be unscrewed using a tiny screwdriver.
Examine the fuse wire. The fuse has to be replaced if there is a clear gap in the wire or if there is a dark or metallic stain inside the glass. Follow steps 4 and 5 if you can’t tell whether the fuse is blown. Go to step 6 if it is certain that the fuse has blown.
How can a car’s main fuse be taken out?
Congratulations, you’re an anomaly if you have never accidentally blown a fuse at home. Consider fuses as the admirable sacrifices of the electrical world because they are built to blow because they stop the overloading of the entire system. Similar to changing a fuse at home, you can change a fuse in your car.
1. Find the fuse panel for your car. The owner’s manual may typically be found under the steering wheel, but you might want to double check.
2. Remove the cover from the fuse panel. A schematic (often on the back of the cover) will illustrate what each fuse in your automobile powers while the interior will display a variety of colors and numbers that represent various amperages.
3. Find the damaged fuse. Typically, the interior will be black, or the metal filament may be damaged. You might need a flashlight to do this task more quickly if it is dark outside.
4. Discard the blown fuse. To remove the blown fuse, you can employ a variety of equipment (or simply use your hands); the key is to proceed with caution. Fuses are prone to breaking, and it is far more difficult to extinguish a damaged fuse than a fully intact one.
5. Replace the damaged fuse with one of the proper amperage.
Take note of your owner’s manual and the fuse panel for this one. Using a fuse with the wrong amperage might result in severe electrical issues.
6. Keep a couple spare fuses in your glove compartment with different amperages. In an emergency, you can always remove a fuse from a function that gets less use and utilize it for something more urgent, but this is only a temporary solution. Take the functional fuse designated for your rear windshield wiper and use it for your power windows, for instance, if the fuse for your power windows blows and there is no rain in the forecast. Just make sure the amperages are the same for each.
7. Turn on the ignition to see if your labor of love was successful.
8. It might be time for a visit to the mechanic if the identical fuse blows shortly after you replace it or doesn’t operate at all.
Do I need to unplug the battery before changing the fuse?
It’s crucial to turn off the engine and unhook the battery before beginning any automobile project, especially before performing any electrical work. While the battery is connected, any error in automobile wiring could result in more damage and possibly a painful zap.
