99 explorer, anti-theft fuse keeps blowing....

[Subnet]

So I recently had my new to me explorer lose a fuel pump - took it to the mechanic, and he said he replaced it. A few days later, I was driving, and had a sudden brake condition, somehow that killed the car. Checked the inertia switch - it was fine.

So I had the mechanic tow it back to his shop - thinking they maybe made a mistake on the repair, or missed something. They've had it for a week now, and they say that something keeps blowing the anti-theft fuse, every time they try to turn it over.

They're pretty much giving up. I'm out $400 for the pump replacement, and still in the same state - engine won't start. I'm wondering now if perhaps this was the problem all along. He's offered to tow it to ford, or whatever, because they can't find any short (and not charging me for the second tow, nor for looking at it). Is there anything I should check/have checked before I end up paying way too much to a dealer to fix this?

Secondarily, anyone know a good auto-electric specialist in the Denver area that may be a little cheaper than going to ford?

Thanks!!

 

[fixxxer]

Hi Subnet and welcome. There's a small auto-electrical shop off of Havana, just south of Colfax. not sure if that's too far out of your way or not. There's a cpl more I know of closer to central Denver. Is it fuse #24 under the dash? That's for the Anti-theft relay, should be a 10amp fuse. I can get you a wiring diagram if you need one.

 

[Subnet]

I'm up near federal & 80th.

Either way, the shop its at now should be willing to tow where ever (within reason).

 

[fixxxer]

I have a couple friends up in Arvada that could probably recommend a shop near there.

 

[Subnet]

Thanks! Any info is good.

 

[fixxxer]

Give these folks a call, I don't have personal experience with them but a lady I work with takes her Lexus there: Marc's Auto Tech (303) 825-0821
690 Federal Blvd, Denver http://www.marcautotech.com

 

[fixxxer]

There's also a 20amp fuse in the fuse box under the hood that supplies power to the RAP module and fuel pump, maybe the shop that replaced the pump pinched a wire and that is now casing the fuse to blow. Fuse #9 in the battery junction box, under the hood, driver's side, next to firewall, between the brake booster and fender. also try removing the fuel pump relay, that will help isolate the area where the problem is. It's also in the battery junction box at position #5.

 

[tami]

Hi! I'm new to this so please forgive me if I'm doing things wrong. We just had our 96 explorer to the mechanics for 2 days because it wouldn't start when the engine is warm/hot. It will start just fine when it's cold. They checked the starter, tried replacing the soleniod (?) and still only starts when cold. They checked all power lines from battery to relay to starter and all checked out just fine and they are stumped! The only thing Mike came up with is the anti theft relay is getting HOT and he thinks it may that the anti theft is overiding the starter??? He tried replacing it but the new one got just as hot and still no start?? I really think they gave it a good try but we still don't have a car that will start?? No charge for 2 days of investigating and replacing and changing several parts so we are happy with them, don't know if I'm allowed to say names so if I get the OK I will. Sorry this is so long.
Thanks for any help