Volvo: Fuel Pump Fuse 1992 240, fuse holders, fuse box

Question
Hi Jason,
My 1992 240 is frequently blowing the fuel pump fuse (6th fuse down in fuse box).  Initially, I thought that maybe the fuse holders are too lose or too tight as the holders are a little bent compared to the other fuses (probally from frequent changing).  Now I think the problem is likely a short someplace in my electrical system.  This is the only electrical problem I have and it has been going on for about 2 years with fuse replacement about every 3 months.  Now the replacements have become more frequent (about every 2 weeks).  Any thoughts/ideas on where I should begin to fix the problem?  Thanks!  Steve  

Answer
This is a common problem in the 240 series.  First of all, the chance of a short in your electrical system is slim, because shorts will usually blow the fuse very quickly.  In this situation, the fuse blows for one of two reasons.  Either your main fuel pump is dying a slow death and slowing drawing more and more current as it seizes, causing it to blow fuses, or your in-tank pump is dead, causing the main pump to work extra hard, draw more current, and subsequently blow fuses as well.  I'll put money on the latter, as the in tank pump failure is common (I've replaced mine too).  Go put your ear up to the top of the gas tank where the fuel lines come out in the trunk and listen for a pump hum while the car is running.  If nothing, time to replace the pump!  Good luck!