Was having some electrical gremlins with my '01 F350 (no power to dome lights and fan stuck in defrost position) so I took it into the shop and the mechanic said the fuse box was rusty and needs to be replaced. That being said, only a few of the fuse locations don't work as the truck runs fine and most of the other electrical items work.

The windshield was pretty cracked so I assumed the moisture was leaking in from there. Got the windshield changed and I am going to replace the fuse box myself. I was planning on buying the fuse box off ebay as the dealership wants ~$750 for it. (note: my mechanic suggested I get it off ebay or a wrecker as it is way less expensive).

My questions:

1. Whats the difficulty level in changing the fuse box?
2. Does anybody know the part number for this so I know I am buying the right one?
3. Do I need to replace the fuse box or is there something else I could do to get specific fuses working again?

Thanks in advance.

 

The fuse box being rusty is a sign of the dreaded windshield leak. Known issue even if your windshield isn't cracked. The water drips down into the back of the fuse box AND the GEM Module. The GEM is what controls a lot of the additional accessories like wipers, lights, stereo etc.
The rust is a sign but wont stop the items from working. However, the GEM can get water inside and start to do weird things.
I would remove the GEM module, (black box by the fuse box), bury it in a bowl of rice for about 3 days. Then try it again. If there is water in it you can shake it and hear it swishing around.