Has anyone ever put in an aftermarket fuse box, to clear up the underdash? Im rewiring right now, and thinkin bout putting one either in the glovebox or underhood somewhere?

 

The fuse-blocks on these trucks is not a bad design, actually better than most.

The problem is the "hang by the wires" method of mounting.

I intend to extend all the wires, on the son's truck, and locate the fuse-block, either behind the seat, or under the seat in a plastic box.

When I get his figured out like I want it, I will do the others.

At the shop, I am in and out of a dozen or more Dodge trucks a day, both gas and diesel.

Without exception, the fuse-blocks are either hanging loose over the pedals, or tied up with all sorts of various cords, duck-tape, bungees, even a few zip-ties.

The truck from the feedmill has it's tied with none other than the strings they tie the feed-sacks shut with.

 

Putting the fuse box back up is one of the biggest PITA's in a 1st gen, along with taking out/installing the dash and putting door panels on.

 

I am adding a second or accessory fuse box to mine, I found a fuse box (from a Ranger I think)that is designed to mount in the engine bay with 8 relays, 10 regular fuses and 8 Maxi-Fuses in it, it has one large wire that feeds all the positive posts for both the relays and fuses. I have made some brackes that allow me to mount it where the grid heater relays used to be. With all the electrical accessories I am going to install I needed a good power source that was not in the cab, I still have to install-

3000 watt DC to AC converter
more off road lights
power seats
big stereo
big CB radio with linear
all factory lights on relays
electric fans
welder
air compressor
plus who knows what else.

X

 

Now wait a minute! From the factory the fuse box was mounted to the trim panel under the steering column.

 

I'm pretty sure it says in the owners manual to go home as soon as the truck was purchased and break the clips on the trim panel.

 

LOL, funny thing is, as much of my dash and trim that is busted, my clip is still in place, cracked, but in place. The reason I wanted to change it, is I want to add some circuits for all my gauges and other junk I have, and I want to clear up a bunch of wires under the dash. I think Ill just leave it for now though.