Thread: 96 SE-R Fuse popping problem, no spark

So my SE-R never had a starting problem since i bought it a couple months ago. I had it running last night to move it into my garage. Anyway, went to start it today, no spark. Fuse #16 in fuse box under the dash keeps popping. Switched the fuse, popped as soon as I turn the key to acc.. Put a paper clip to jump the fuse. Paperclip was getting real hot and starting arking a little bitt. Currently looking for an fsm for my car. Just wondering if anybody has an idea what it might be.Fuse 16 is a 10 amp "engine control".

Can you provide anymore details that could be considered out of the ordinary? Anything electrical been replaced or repaired recently? You current symptoms could yield several different solutions without more details? The first obvious thing that jumps out at me is something in the circuit for engine control is grounding out. You'll need to do a through inspection of your wiring harness. Look for melted or burned wires.

Changed the alternator last week. Only think I have done to the car so far. Still, car ran fine with the new alternator. I think theres a short too. Did a slight search for burnt wires or anything but no luck. Hitting the fsm's now..

Also disconnected the airbag from the steering wheel. Taped off the plug so it isnt exposed.

I don't have the link immediately available, but do a google search for "nico fsm". They have all the fsms.

I would closely inspect the hot wires that trace to the alternator. Very possible that the hot lead may be routed incorrectly causing it to become damaged while driving, (vibration, engine movement etc...)unlikely but it does happen.

Ive changed so many alternators, its hard to believe I did it wrong. But thats usually where the problem is tho, the last place you would ever check. Will check it tonight and update.

Ok, so its not the alternator. Just checked it.

ok, so what you're really going to need now is a schematic of the "engine control" system. It will be necessary to see where the wiring harness branches off too in order to continue troubleshooting. The obvious answer is a hot lead is grounding somewhere.....especially since it pops as soon as you turn the key accessory... Do you constantly adjust the steering wheel up and down? If so, over time, wires that bend back and forth tend to break, far-fetched I know but I am trying to give you a direction. I would begin the focus of your efforts in the steering column.

Index of /FSM/Sentra/1996

"EC" is engine control