Why Isn't There Any Power to #3 Fuse for Instrument Panel Lights?

[Rumblefish]

#3 Instrument panel, cluster, ash tray & cigar lighter illumination

All other fuses are hot on both sides except the tiny fuse (#3) which has no power either side. Any suggestions? 

PS: You guys helped me with my turn signal switch and fuse box corrosion, I'm back for more!

 

[Studdley]

#3 Instrument panel, cluster, ash tray & cigar lighter illumination

All other fuses are hot on both sides except the tiny fuse (#3) which has no power either side. Any suggestions? 

PS: You guys helped me with my turn signal switch and fuse box corrosion, I'm back for more!

I had a similar issue and it turned out that my light switch was bad. It only actuated the headlights, but wouldn't work to light up the instrument panel or anything like that

 

[Rumblefish]

I was thinking the same thing and I replaced the headlight switch last night.  Shouldn't the fuse block be hot at all times? I think I will find out which wire feeds the fuse block and trace it back. It might come from the battery.

 

[Don C]

No, the #3 fuse power is fed from the rheostat in the light switch. The light switch and lights are protected by a built-in circuit breaker that carries too much current for the dash lights and circuit board.

 

[Rumblefish]

So when I turn my lights on (either running lights and or headlights, the fuse should become hot)? I'll have to take a look at that.

TY Don C.

 

[Don C]

Yes, that is correct. The rheostat in the light switch, that controls the voltage to the dash light bulbs, can fail and all the lights, except power to fuse #3 and dash lights will work.