Hey folks-

My trusty '76 240D has developed quite a problem with blowing fuse #5, the 8A fuse for the instrument cluster, brake lights etc.

It first happened a few weeks back, noticed the temp gauge wasn't working and also the rear brake lights, checked the fuse, it was shot. Put a new fuse in and no problems for a few weeks.

Then a day or so ago it blew again.
This time the new fuse only lasted a few hours, and now, I can put a new fuse in and it will blow almost immediately!

I'm a real putz with electrical stuff, I don't even know where to start!

I do know that I also have "fast blinker" syndrome, but I checked all my bulbs for the signals and they're all good......

Any ideas? Where to start? I hate driving without the brake lights!!!!

mark in Portland