Fuses - Are they all the same

[BB68Vett]

Is there any difference between the AGU (glass tube) fuses you buy at the auto parts stores and the ones that they sell at the electronics shops. The ones at the electronics shops are much more expensive. I don't really care about gold connections, etc. I will be using AGU fuses in my amplifier installation and I want to use the best quality stuff. Will the fuses from the electronic shops be more accurate as far as blowing in the event of a surge or short circuit? Thanks for any replies.

[_Nomad_]

Is there any difference between the AGU (glass tube) fuses you buy at the auto parts stores and the ones that they sell at the electronics shops. The ones at the electronics shops are much more expensive. I don't really care about gold connections, etc.

I will be using AGU fuses in my amplifier installation and I want to use the best quality stuff. Will the fuses from the electronic shops be more accurate as far as blowing in the event of a surge or short circuit? Thanks for any replies.

Yes, there is, usually in regards to quality. Some companies make questionable quality AGU fuses. The problem lies in the solder joint that connects the end caps to the fusible element, which causes too much resistance leading to excessive heat build up, lower voltage transfer, and blown fuses. Not to mention the possibility of melted fuse holders, basically, an all around unpleasant experience. If you can find some BUSS or LITTELFUSE brand AGU fuses, you won't be as likely to have problems. Car audio shops are more likely to sell these brands than an auto parts store will.

I would recommend you use an ANL fuse for the main battery fuse. Then only use the AGU fuses for (inline) fusing for the amps. However, if you have a more powerful system, then MAXI fuses would be a better choice for fusing at the amps themselves while keeping the ANL fuse at the battery.

Hope this helps.

[BB68Vett]

Thanks for the reply. I looked at the ANL fuseholders as you suggested earlier this week in another thread. It seems these are made for very powerful stereo systems. My two amps will be fused at 25A and 15A respectively, requiring only a 40A fuse at the battery (this using 4ga wire). The ANL fuses, if I remember correctly, were starting at about 100A. Based on your recommendation, I will buy my fuses from HIFI Buys or some similar store.

I appreciate all of your help. I should start my wiring next weekend.

[_Nomad_]

My two amps will be fused at 25A and 15A respectively, requiring only a 40A fuse at the battery (this using 4ga wire). The ANL fuses, if I remember correctly, were starting at about 100A. Based on your recommendation, I will buy my fuses from HIFI Buys or some similar store.

ANL fuses start at 35A and go to 750A; maybe the store you were at just didn't have them since AGU fuses are used more in lower powered systems because they are cheaper. However, since you will only be running about 40A inline at the battery, then yes, an AGU fuse can do the job, just be careful and don't use the inline airtight/watertight fuse holder with it. If you do happen to have a problem with the fuse, then a sealed fuse holder will prevent heat from escaping and cause even more damage. It may cost a little more but, just get good quality products and you should be ok. :cheers:

[BB68Vett]

Nomad, as always thanks for the advice.