Electrical problems, no accessories/gauges/starter

[K05Aggie]

I backed into a parking spot when a small puff of smoke came out from the steering column near the gear indicator in my 89 K5. The engine died immediately as well as any electronics, radio, pwr windows gauges etc. I pulled the dash apart and put a new ignition starter switch in assuming this was the problem but it had no effect. has anyone had this same problem or have any suggestions for me? thanks

 

[K05Aggie]

I took a multimeter with a good ground to the plug that goes into the switch and there is no power going to any of the wires. I couldn't find a fuse in there that was blown either. where do i look now?

 

[K05Aggie]

Can anyone at least tell me where the instrument cluster is grounded to the body? maybe i lost the ground after i fried the ignition switch? I miss driving my blazer and have been cruising in my bronco. Does everyone want to see a ford victory or will someone with experience step up and help out a fellow k5 guy?

 

[78GMCJIMMY]

Two words. Fusible Link. Thats all your gettin' out of me after that rant!

 

[Babaganoosh]

As mentioned above grab a test light and poke it at the junction block. If you have power there then I would go inside and check around.

 

[K05Aggie]

yea the two words would have been a huge help 2 days ago when i originally posted the question (edited yesterday). If i hadn't ranted or searched the internet for wiring diagrams for hours i wouldn't have a clue. Thanks for the help.