fuses

[Joseph Yakubik <75363.2524@compuserve.com>]

>From: Barry Doolan <bdoolan@together.net>

Subject: Instrument cluster fuse location on 89/200qt

While adjusting my electric mirrors on my 1989 200tq, I blew the fuse. 
This fuse also controls the instrument cluster gauges. A quick look in 
the owners manual showed the location of this 5 amp fuse is in the 
fuse box under the hood (located in the "Group B" line adjacent to the 
Motor diagnostic switches). This is also confirmed by the layout shown 
on the inside cover of the fuse box. However, there is no fuse or a 
fuse slot located in this position! After taking out the drivers side 
dash cover, I could find no fuse next to the interior relays. Where is 
it? Since I bought this car used, I have no idea if this is an Audi 
fluke or a serious alteration by the previous owner...any ideas<

Yes, stop believing what the owner's manual says and listen to us!

Someone, somewhere, can't count or they forgot to add fuse position number
23 to the count.

From left to right in the fuse box you have fuses 1 through 21, then you
jump up above this row to fuse number 22.  This is for an auxiliary fuel
pump, or something on the diesels.  Then you shoot over to the lower left
corner of the fuse box and start with position number 23, usually empty.
The row of five holders (apparently you have a few singles) that is
more/less centered starts, numerically, with 24.  These are the "group B"
fuses.  Your empty slot is probably slot 25, for the memory seats, or slot
27 for the Motronic stuff on the '91.  The fuse you are looking should be
the 5 amp that is all alone.  It doesn't hurt to pull them all out and
check them periodically.  I do this with my oil changes -- really.

Your mirror adjustment shouldn't have blown it though.  Was your mirror
frozen or something?  If it blows again, look for chafing of the harness
near the hinges in the doors.  Audi wiring is under-spec'd and prone to
cracking.  Replacing this harness is a PITA, repairing it is too; but as
you've seen, it is necessary.

BTW:  There were running changes on the '89 Audis.  The cut-off is supposed
to Nov '88.  A few electrical differences, but the biggie is the single or
dual knock sensor motor.  I'm sure I'll be corrected if I'm wrong.

Your next purchase should be the Bentley manuals for your car.  They are a
three volume set bigger than the phone book.  WWW.amazon.com was running a
special.  Don't balk when you see the $150+ price.  It's worth it after the
first repair bill.

Joe Yakubik