itsamenow

Got a quick question for all you C4 experts...
I was sitting in my car (1987 Corvette), had the engine running, air conditioner, and the radio. I used the cigarette lighter and when I pulled it out, I lost interior lights, radio and air conditioner. I replaced the main
pwr acc breaker thinking that would fix it. but it did not. What else is there that would knock out those particular things? I have not looked at the individual fuses yet because I didn't think the lighter would kill all
those things at the same time. Any help would be appreciated.

Cruisinfanatic

CTSY Fuse
Don't use the lighter

FOURSPEEDVETTE

I agree.

65Z01

Sounds like you may need to replace the lighter element.

itsamenow

Just wanted to say thanks for the info. Replaced the ctsy fuse and everything is back. Also replace all breakers (looked pretty grody). I guess what was throwing
me was the fact that I lost A.C. also. Specs call for a 15 amp. I pulled a 30 out of it. So, I put a 30 back in it. Was working fine until I used the lighter. (Guess I wont
be using the lighter any more :-) ).

Cruisinfanatic

you should be replacing with a 15

hcbph

You could try replacing the lighter and socket. Sounds like there's a short in it somewhere.

itsamenow

I don't have any idea how many people have worked on that car before I got it. I assumed that the 30amp was in there because of the A.C.. Would a 15amp be big enough?

itsamenow

You're probably right. It's as old as the rest of the car. (original equip.)

WhiteC1

If the fuse panel calls for a 15amp fuse, DON'T put a 30amp fuse in! The fuses are sized to protect the wiring in the circuit from overload. If you use a larger fuse, it could easily lead to a lighter gauge wire in the circuit melting before the fuse blows. Worse case scenario, you start a fire under your dash. The blown fuse is telling you something... Fix the problem. Oh, and by the way, quit smoking, it's not good for you!

Regards,
John

pacoW

you're asking for a cockpit fire by putting a 30amp fuse where a 15amp should go. Never over size fuses.

DGXR

For everyone suggesting "don't use the lighter," are you saying don't use the socket for anything? Or just don't use the cigarette lighter element, specifically?

I use the socket for cell phone charging which I understand is a relatively low draw compared to the lighter element, so I don't anticipate any issues with this kind of use.

Cruisinfanatic

In the OP's case he shouldn't because it's blowing fuses. What does that have to do with you?

DGXR

I'm also using my lighter socket. Not meaning to threadjack. Can you answer my question?

vette196

Yes I'm curious as what the answer is, I use it for the cell phone and radar detector

"What does that have to do with you?"

maybe its the written word, but that sounded like a snarky response considering its a discussion forum

pacoW

I would not use the socket at all, pull the console plate and check the wiring for a short, if the wiring looks okay replace the socket, cheap insurance.

Cruisinfanatic

No one said YOU couldn't use it if you are not blowing fuses caused by using lighter socket

Cruisinfanatic

you answered someone that doesn't have a problem

Hot Rod Roy

There are hundreds of thousands of Corvette C4 owners who don't have a problem with blowing fuses when they use their cigarette lighter socket. If you're not having a problem, you don't need to worry about it. If you ARE having a problem, then it's time to fix it, but it's a very rare problem! Does that answer your question?

Hint: Don't let any coins, metal objects, or liquids get into your socket!

ghoastrider1

btw, a penny fits perfect in that lighter socket..dont asl how I know.