How to Replace the Radio Fuse in a 1987 Yugo

Introduction

Replacing the radio fuse in a 1987 Yugo is a straightforward process that most owners can complete themselves. The fuse protects the radio circuit from electrical shorts and overloads. When it blows, the radio will stop working. Replacing it should restore radio function.

In this guide, I will walk through the steps to check and replace the radio fuse in a 1987 Yugo. I will cover locating the fuse, removing and inspecting it, and installing a new fuse. With a little time and the right tools, you can get your Yugo's radio working again.

Gather Tools and Supplies

Before starting, gather the following tools and supplies:

• New fuse - Look in the owner's manual or on the fuse box cover to determine the correct radio fuse amperage for your Yugo. Purchase a replacement glass tube fuse with this amp rating.

• Flashlight - This will help you see the fuse box and fuse terminals.

• Needle-nose pliers - Use these to remove and insert fuses. Regular pliers may crush the glass body of the fuse.

• Phillips screwdriver - You'll need this to open the fuse box cover.

• Gloves - Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges in the fuse box.

Locate the Fuse Box

Yugo fuse boxes are located in two places:

• Under the dash on the driver's side

• In the engine compartment on the driver's side

The radio fuse is located under the dash. Follow these steps to access it:

1. Open the driver's door.

2. Look underneath the dash on the driver's side. You should see a plastic fuse box cover.

3. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw holding the cover in place. Set it aside.

4. Pull down the cover to expose the fuses inside.

Identify the Radio Fuse

Now it's time to figure out which fuse powers the radio. Check the fuse box cover or owner's manual for a fuse diagram.

If no diagram is available, look for a fuse labeled "RADIO" or with an icon representing a radio. The radio fuse is likely rated 10-20 amps.

Tips for Locating the Fuse

• Fuses are often grouped by circuit type. Look in the same area as other audio equipment fuses.

• Try tapping or wiggling each fuse while the radio is on. If tapping one makes the radio cut out, you've found the right fuse.

• Pull suspected fuses one at a time with the radio on. The correct fuse will shut off the radio when removed.

Remove and Inspect the Fuse

Once you've located the radio fuse, follow these steps:

1. Use needle-nose pliers to grasp the fuse and pull it straight out from the fuse box.

2. Hold the fuse up to a light source and look through the glass window.

   • If the metal ribbon inside is intact, the fuse is still good. Reinstall it.

   • If the ribbon is broken, the fuse has blown. Proceed to install a new fuse.

A blown fuse's metal ribbon will have a visible gap or break in it if you hold it up to the light.

Install a New Fuse

To install a new radio fuse:

1. Use pliers to grasp the new fuse by the metal end caps. Do not touch the glass window.

2. Locate the empty radio fuse slot in the fuse box.

3. Carefully insert the fuse into the slot. Make sure it is oriented correctly, with the metal caps touching the terminals.

4. Push the fuse all the way into the slot until it clicks into place. The glass window should be visible from the top.

5. Check that the new fuse is held tightly in the terminals and making good contact.

6. Reinstall the fuse box cover and screw.

Test the radio to confirm the new fuse restored functionality. If the radio still does not work, there may be an underlying problem that caused the original fuse to blow.

Conclusion

Replacing a blown radio fuse is a quick and inexpensive first step in diagnosing Yugo radio problems. With the correct fuse amp rating and a little fuse box investigation, you can swap out a bad fuse in just a few minutes. If the radio works normally after installing a new fuse, you've successfully completed the repair.