I have read so many different articles on this subject but, not sure how to specifically diagnose. Details of my issue are as follows: There is no circuit breaker or inline fuse in my boat (although I read it is common on many other boats). Battery in good shape including cables to it. The ignition fuse is under the dash. I have never had this happen before. Over 14 years enjoyment. This year, after only 2 successful outings, initially, when the boat was idling it would not blow. I have moved around wires while idling to try to find a loose or questionable connection at dash and in engine compartment with no luck. When I took it to just over 25 mph is when it happened the first time. Engine cut off and no power to gauges. Blower and radio circuits still fine. Putting it in and out of neutral fine. The horn does not seem to work though (odd, could that be the area of concern... short?). After replacing fuse 3 times (first 2 blew out consecutively when I turned the key) it seemed to be fine. Start fine, idle fine, shake wires trying to find culprit ... nothing. Went out again yesterday and as soon as after I hit around 25 mph for a while the engine started to cut off (like before) and fuse went again. Replaced the fuse 4 times (while I am stranded/floating in middle of lake) and blows out consecutively. Other than having boat towed back to dock, have not gotten any further than that. One thing I noticed was that the battery console gauge was jumping around actively when the engine was cutting off. Also, during the last outing, when the first fuse was blown out it was just about melted (came out in 2 pieces). The only significant thing that has been replaced in the boat was the alternator 2 years ago. Which still looks almost new. Battery cables, alternator wires etc look fine though. Could the alternator/regulator have gone bad again? Can I disconnect alternator and just run off the battery for a start without blowing fuse? At this point I am trying to isolate/identify problem areas and figure out where I should be looking more closely. Also, if I need to, will need coaching on the specific process for tracing a wire with a meter or anything else that makes sense. Although I am very handy and have had a good amount of experience with engine work, I have never done any electrical troubleshooting on engines. Thanks in advance for help!
