Re: Fusible link 'nodes'

[CLARENCE NOVAK <novanet@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Gentlemen,

On my 1981 Eagle there are two fusible link 'nodes'/links on the ps 
side inner fender well near the starter solenoid.  Forgive my 
electrical ignorance for missing that day/year in class. The rubber 
nodes/links are the same size, one connected to an apx 12-14 gauge 
red wire with a white stripe.  The other to a similar gauge red wire. 
They both are fitted to the wiring harness in the same tree as the 
alternator.  They need to be replaced because the original insulation 
and the fusible link wire unions are in sad shape.

My question is what is the load rating on these links ? Or is the 
answer the obvious that the rating is determined by the wire 
gauge.... Then what is the operational difference between fusible 
link wire and wire with a link 'node' in it ?  I have some after 
market bubble pack fusible links to use as replacements. It is a bit 
difficult to use the existing wiring as a reference as this vehicles 
wiring appears to have been previously 'modified' by someone who may 
have less electrical experience (possible ?) than I as it appears in 
most cases, they installed a heaver gauge fusible wire than the 
wiring diagram at least indicates.

Thanks.

Clarence
1981 Eagle Sport Wagon
1992 Subaru SVX
1965 Jaguar 4.2 MKX

1968 Subaru 360