Car won't turn over with dome light fuse inserted

Hi new to this group and the game. I bought a '93 SR5 and didn't do all my homework.

Here is my challenge I am looking for some help. The car starts and runs fine (as long as the fuse for the dome lights/stereo is REMOVED) if the fuse is put back in then dome lights and stereo work, but car will not turn over. I know with electrical it usually a case of "follow the wiring" didn't know if anyone has more specific suggestions. Thanks again

 

Unfortunately you do need to follow the wiring. You should get your model year wiring diagrams to use as a guide.
Anyone who’s going to help you will need more info.
Did you buy this from a dealer or private party?
Did you or the previous owner do any electrical modifications to this 4R?
How did you discover the DOME fuse reacts like this?
Did you or the previous owner install an alarm system? If so, did you get any info about this?
Is there an OEM alarm/theft deterrent system in this 4R?

I’m guessing, but it almost sounds like there’s an aftermarket theft deterrent system that’s powered off the DOME circuit that’s malfunctioning and preventing the vehicle from starting.

 

Good thinking, Electroboy! Now I see how you got your name. It’s great to have a resource like this available in the forum.

 

Thanks for the reply I really appreciate it,
I bought from a private seller
The owner Prior to the one I bought from did the electrical mods
I discovered it by looking for the fuse (since the lights didn't work) put the fuse in, lights worked, but car doesn't start
No alarm but what I discovered after today was that he had a Large amplifier and a big bass speaker box in the back. I think/fear he didn't ground it well and it shorted somewhere.

I pulled the dash off and removed the aftermarket radio, and he wiring for the radio and amp. I also disconnected the large red wire running directly from the battery to the radio and wiring for the amp (I believe there was a large amp and bass speakers because of more wires under the passenger seat and wires running from there to the very back. Monster Stereo brand)

Car still behaves the same as before with and without the radio wired in.

I prob made a bad purchase buy any ideas are appreciated, Thanks

 

Electrical issues can be problematic in the simplest of machines. With a wiring diagram in hand, you just have to check everything methodically and make sure it’s all OEM. It can be fixed, and since your services aren’t costing you a $100/hour, you can take as much time as it takes.

 

You say when the Dome fuse is inserted the car “will not turn over”. Describe this in more detail.
When you turn the key from the Off position to the first position what happens, any dash lights On?
When you turn the key to the On position what happens, any dash lights On, do you hear any relays click?
When you turn the key to Start what happens, any dash lights, any relays click, any sounds?
Does the starter solenoid click?
Any sounds from under the hood during this time?
Does the starter run and crank the engine, but it does not fire up and run?

Does anything electrical work when the Dome fuse is installed, like headlights, turn signals, interior lights, door lights? horn, brake lights, turn signals, etc?

And when the fuse is removed describe all these same items.

Also, is this an automatic or 5 speed manual transmission?

 

I have the same problem, just bought the truck last week, if I put in the dome light fuse my alarm goes off and won't start if I pull the fuse then truck starts 1 crank, did you find the problem?

 

I like this dudes thinking.