i searched the forums but came up with nothing for a little problem with my truck.

my 2004 f150 blows the #6 fuse, a 15A when i turn my headlights on. they engine can be running, but as soon as the switch is turned, the fuse blows, causing my instrument cluster and middle console shifter light to go out.

anyone experienced this?

i will say i just got done putting an aftermarket radio in, but im confident i wired it correctly, and those wires shouldnt even be a factor in this situation.

 

The #6 fuse is for the parklamps, instrument panel and the BSM.
I would start by removing all of the parking lamp bulbs and examining the sockets
Leaving the lamps out and with a new fuse in the panel turn on the lights.
If the fuse does not blow reinstall the bulbs one at a time.
If the fuse blows You will need to disconnect the instrument panel
and try another fuse.
Repeat the test by working your way along the wiring disconnecting each connection in the circuit until you stop blowing fuses.
I have been known to go through the circuit and do all of the disconnecting.
Then start with a new fuse and working from the fuse outwards connect things together until the fuse blows.
Then I know that the short is in the last segment connected.
I really think that the problem will be in the parking lights.

 

ok i will try this. and when you say parking lights, are you referring to "running lights" the little amber ones built inside the headlight lense?
in other words, on the light switch, the first selection of lights when turned from off to p= (kinda that symbol) clockwise?

i may know them as another name.

 

Your running lights or parking lights should also have a lead at the raio for dimming the radio when you turn your lights on make sure that wire is effectively insulated or hooked to the radio correctly. sounds like a bad radio light lead touching chasis groun behind your radio
John

 

i think that is the culprit, i checked and replaced parking lights, and it still blew the fuse, time to tear in the dash and check out the radio.

 

Did checking behind the radio cure your lights? just checking....