Chrysler Repair: fusible links, dodge colt, wire thicknesses

Question
I have a 1987 dodge colt e non turbo. The problem is I screwed up jump starting the car and instead of pos to pos, I went pos to neg. I noticed that a fusible link right off the battery is  fried. the car has no power to lights, dash or radio. I do not know the amperage of the link and was wondering if you any ideas.

Jason

Answer
Hi Jason,
The current carrying capacity of a fusible link depends upon the gauge of the wire. And each of the varying thicknesses have a different hypalon insulating sheath color. So the best thing to do is to identify the color of the original insulating covering of the link, then go to a Dodge dealer parts counter or a parts store and ask for a replacement fusible link with the same color covering. Then splice it in for the blown link, stripping about 1" of insulator off each end, wrapping the wires together, soldering with electrical type solder, then wrapping with three or more layers of electrical tape. I can't be sure that the color codes between Japan and US fusible link wire thicknesses are identical, so mention that it is from a Japanese import vehicle when you go to buy the link. I have never seen an amperage chart for fusible links, only color vs. wire gauge.
I have an '84 colt manual to work with but I couldn't be sure it is applicable to your '87 in all aspects and the fusible link wire covering colors are not shown. So look closely at whatever material is left to identify a color.
Roland