5601005 - ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder 10 Amp Main 5 Amp Added

Protect your truck's electrical system with convenient Dual Fuse Holders from Buyers Products. The dual fuse holders let you turn one fuse slot into two. It is ideal for accessory lighting, snow plow, and spreader operations.

Specifications

The Buyers Products ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder, featuring a 10 Amp Main and 5 Amp Added capacity, represents a critical component for modern vehicle electrical system expansion. Designed to offer a secure and efficient method for powering auxiliary accessories without compromising the integrity of the original wiring harness, this device is engineered for both reliability and ease of integration. In contemporary automotive and commercial truck applications, where electrical demands are continually increasing due to advanced onboard electronics and aftermarket additions, the ability to safely and professionally expand power circuits is paramount. This dual fuse holder provides an elegant solution by transforming a single existing fused circuit into two independently protected circuits, ensuring that both the original equipment and any newly added accessories operate within their specified current limits, thereby preventing electrical overloads, potential component damage, and fire hazards.

At its core, the dual fuse holder, often referred to as a "fuse tap" or "add-a-circuit," functions by inserting directly into an existing fuse slot within the vehicle’s fuse panel. Unlike traditional methods of splicing into existing wires, which can introduce points of failure, voids warranties, and degrade the electrical system’s reliability, this device maintains the factory wiring integrity. It features two distinct fuse slots: one for the original circuit’s fuse and a second for the auxiliary circuit’s fuse. This design ensures that the protection scheme for the original circuit remains unchanged, while the new accessory is independently protected by its own dedicated fuse. This meticulous approach to circuit expansion is essential for maintaining the vehicle's electrical system's long-term health and preventing diagnostic complexities that can arise from improperly installed accessories.

Technical Specifications and Operational Principles

The specific attributes of this ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder are crucial to its functionality and broad applicability:

ATM Low Profile Fuse Style

The designation "ATM Low Profile" refers to a specific physical form factor of blade-type automotive fuses. These fuses are characterized by their compact dimensions, significantly smaller than standard ATM (mini) or ATO (regular) fuses. The reduced height of ATM Low Profile fuses makes them ideal for modern vehicle fuse boxes, where space is often at a premium. Contemporary vehicle manufacturers frequently utilize these low-profile designs to enable more compact fuse panel layouts, contributing to overall vehicle space optimization and simplified assembly processes. The robust plastic housing of these fuses protects the metal elements from environmental contaminants and physical damage, while the blade terminals ensure a secure and reliable electrical connection. The use of the correct fuse style, in this case, ATM Low Profile, is not merely an aesthetic choice but a functional necessity, ensuring proper fitment and electrical contact within the vehicle's fuse block.

Dual Fuse Capacities: 10 Amp Main and 5 Amp Added

The specification of "10 Amp Main" and "5 Amp Added" directly dictates the protective capabilities of the device:

• 10 Amp Main Fuse Capacity: This slot is dedicated to housing the original fuse that was removed from the vehicle’s fuse panel. Its primary function is to continue protecting the original circuit that the dual fuse holder is tapping into. It is imperative that the fuse inserted into this "Main" slot matches the amperage rating of the fuse originally present in that slot. For instance, if the original circuit was protected by a 10 Amp fuse, then a 10 Amp fuse must be placed in the main slot of the dual fuse holder. This ensures that the original circuit continues to operate within its design parameters, preventing both under-fusing (nuisance blowing) and over-fusing (risk of wiring damage due to excessive current flow). A 10 Amp rating is common for various vehicle sub-systems, including interior lighting, radio components, and specific control modules.
• 5 Amp Added Fuse Capacity: This slot is designated for the fuse protecting the newly added accessory. A 5 Amp rating is particularly versatile and suitable for a wide array of low-power auxiliary devices. The selection of a 5 Amp fuse is based on the typical current draw of common accessories and provides robust protection without being overly sensitive. For example, many LED lighting solutions, dash cameras, GPS modules, USB charging ports, and small control units for aftermarket systems operate well within a 5 Amp current envelope. This independent protection ensures that any fault or overload in the accessory circuit will blow only its dedicated 5 Amp fuse, leaving the original vehicle circuit fully operational and unaffected. This isolation of faults is a cornerstone of safe and reliable electrical system design.

The careful selection of fuse amperages is critical. An undersized fuse for the accessory would lead to frequent, inconvenient blowouts, while an oversized fuse would fail to provide adequate protection, potentially leading to overheating of the accessory's wiring or components, and in severe cases, could result in an electrical fire. The 5 Amp rating offers a well-balanced protective threshold for many common aftermarket additions.

Cable Gauge: 14 AWG

The integrated wiring of the dual fuse holder utilizes 14 AWG (American Wire Gauge) cable. This specification is crucial for understanding the electrical current carrying capacity and thermal performance of the device:

• 14 AWG Significance: A 14 AWG wire is a robust conductor, rated for significant current flow relative to the fuse capacities provided. For automotive applications, 14 AWG wire is generally suitable for circuits carrying up to 15-20 Amps, depending on factors such as insulation type, conductor material, ambient temperature, and wire bundle size. In the context of this fuse holder, which features a maximum added circuit load of 5 Amps and manages a 10 Amp main circuit, the 14 AWG wire is conservatively sized. This ensures a substantial safety margin, minimizing voltage drop and heat generation within the wire, even under continuous load conditions.
• Conductor Material: Typically, automotive wiring utilizes stranded copper conductors for flexibility and durability against vibration. The copper is often tinned to enhance corrosion resistance, which is particularly important in the harsh automotive environment where moisture and various chemicals can be present.
• Insulation: The wire is protected by a durable insulating jacket, commonly PVC or XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene), designed to withstand temperature extremes, abrasion, and exposure to automotive fluids. The quality of the insulation is vital for preventing short circuits and maintaining long-term electrical integrity.

The choice of 14 AWG wire for this fuse holder reflects a commitment to safety and performance, ensuring that the connected accessories receive stable power and that the wiring itself does not become a point of thermal inefficiency or failure.

Construction Materials and Durability

The robust construction of Buyers Products dual fuse holders is critical for their intended use in demanding vehicle environments. Key material considerations include:

• Housing Material: The body of the fuse holder is typically constructed from high-temperature resistant thermoplastic polymers, such as nylon 6/6 or a similar engineering plastic. These materials are chosen for their excellent dielectric properties, mechanical strength, and resistance to impact, vibration, and thermal cycling, which are prevalent in automotive applications. They are also designed to be non-flammable or self-extinguishing to meet safety standards.
• Conductors and Contacts: The internal conductive elements, including the blade terminals that engage with the fuse box and the terminals that receive the fuses, are generally made from tinned copper or brass alloys. These materials offer superior electrical conductivity, resistance to oxidation and corrosion, and sufficient mechanical strength to ensure a tight, low-resistance connection with the fuse blades. A low-resistance connection is paramount to minimize heat generation and prevent power loss.
• Environmental Resistance: The design incorporates features to resist ingress of moisture and dust, although these units are typically intended for installation within the protected environment of an interior fuse box. The materials are selected to endure wide operating temperature ranges, from extreme cold to high under-dash or engine compartment heat, ensuring consistent performance over the lifespan of the vehicle.

This careful material selection and robust construction contribute directly to the product's long-term reliability and safety, which are hallmarks of professional-grade automotive components.

Expanded Applications and Use Cases

While the initial description highlights accessory lighting, snow plow, and spreader operations, the versatility of the ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder extends to a much broader range of applications:

• Accessory Lighting: Beyond basic auxiliary lights, this includes LED light bars, fog lights, daytime running lights (DRLs), interior accent lighting (e.g., footwell or dashboard strips), underglow kits, and custom illumination setups. The 5 Amp added circuit is perfectly suited for the typically low current draw of modern LED arrays.
• Snow Plow and Spreader Control Circuits: For heavy-duty applications like snow plows and salt spreaders, while the primary motors and hydraulic pumps often have dedicated high-amperage circuits, their control modules, indicator lights, and secondary functions (e.g., vibrator motors for spreaders) can draw modest current. This fuse holder is ideal for powering these control systems, enabling safe integration without impacting the vehicle's core electrical functions.
• Dash Cameras and Surveillance Systems: Many dash cameras require a constant power supply for parking mode functionality or a switched power supply for recording while driving. This dual fuse holder provides a discreet and reliable way to tap into the vehicle's electrical system for these devices, ensuring continuous operation and protection.
• GPS Trackers and Telematics Units: Fleet management systems and personal GPS trackers often require a dedicated, continuous power source. The 5 Amp added circuit can reliably power these critical monitoring devices.
• USB Charging Ports and Power Outlets: Aftermarket USB chargers or additional 12V power outlets are frequently installed for convenience. The fuse holder ensures these ports are safely powered and protected from overcurrents, preventing damage to connected devices or the vehicle's electrical system.
• Heated Seats (Control Circuits): While the main heating elements of heated seats draw significant current, the control modules and switches typically require a much lower current. This product can power the control side, integrating these comfort features safely.
• Two-Way Radios and Communication Equipment: Lower-power two-way radios, CB radios, or their respective control units can be powered by the 5 Amp circuit, enabling communication capabilities for commercial or recreational use.
• Radar Detectors and Laser Jammers: Enthusiasts or professionals relying on these devices can utilize the fuse holder for a clean, reliable power connection, avoiding unsightly and potentially unreliable cigarette lighter adapters.
• Aftermarket Alarms and Remote Start Systems: While complex systems may have their own power harnesses, specific sensors, indicators, or auxiliary features of these systems can be safely integrated using a fuse tap.
• Infotainment System Upgrades: Components like small amplifiers, additional displays, or custom audio processing units that require a consistent, low-amperage power feed can benefit from this installation method.

Each of these applications benefits from the fundamental advantages of the dual fuse holder: independent circuit protection, preservation of original wiring, and ease of installation compared to more intrusive wiring modifications.

Installation Best Practices and Safety Considerations

Proper installation of the ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder is paramount to ensure both functionality and safety. Adherence to best practices is essential:

• Safety First: Always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before beginning any electrical work. This prevents accidental short circuits and protects both the installer and the vehicle's electronics.
• Circuit Identification: Carefully identify a suitable fuse slot in the vehicle's fuse panel. Considerations include:
  • Switched vs. Constant Power: Determine if the accessory requires power only when the ignition is on (switched) or continuous power (constant), e.g., for dash camera parking modes. Use a multimeter or circuit tester to confirm the power status of the selected fuse slot.
  • Non-Critical Circuits: Avoid tapping into critical safety systems such as airbags (SRS), anti-lock brakes (ABS), engine control units (ECU), or instrument cluster circuits. Issues with these circuits can have severe safety implications. Circuits for interior lights, power outlets, or radio accessories are often suitable.
  • Original Fuse Amperage: Ensure the chosen original fuse slot has an amperage rating compatible with or greater than the 10 Amp main fuse capacity of the holder, or at least that a 10 Amp fuse protects the circuit being tapped. Never exceed the original circuit's rating.
• Fuse Placement: Insert the original fuse into the slot closest to the blade terminals of the dual fuse holder (this protects the original circuit). Insert the appropriate 5 Amp fuse for the new accessory into the outer slot.
• Orientation: Insert the dual fuse holder firmly into the selected fuse slot in the vehicle's fuse panel. Ensure it is seated correctly to establish reliable electrical contact. The output wire for the accessory should be oriented to route cleanly without interfering with other components.
• Wiring Connection: Connect the 14 AWG wire from the dual fuse holder to the accessory's power input. Use high-quality electrical connectors, such as crimp-style butt connectors with heat shrink, or solder connections with appropriate insulation. Ensure all connections are secure, free from frayed wires, and adequately insulated to prevent short circuits.
• Wire Routing: Route the wiring safely, away from sharp edges, hot components (e.g., exhaust manifolds), moving parts, and areas where it could be pinched or abraded. Use zip ties or cable clamps to secure the wiring, maintaining a professional and durable installation.
• Testing: After installation, reconnect the battery. Test the accessory to ensure it functions correctly. Verify that the original circuit also operates as intended. Perform a visual inspection for any signs of arcing or excessive heat.
• Maintenance: Periodically inspect the fuse holder and wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Always replace blown fuses with fuses of the identical type (ATM Low Profile) and amperage rating (10A for main, 5A for added). Never use a higher amperage fuse or makeshift conductors, as this bypasses critical safety features.

Advantages of Buyers Products Professional-Grade Components

The selection of a professional-grade product like the Buyers Products ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder offers distinct advantages over generic or lower-quality alternatives:

• Reliability and Quality Control: Buyers Products is renowned for manufacturing durable, high-performance components for demanding applications. This translates to rigorous quality control processes, ensuring each fuse holder meets stringent specifications for material quality, dimensional accuracy, and electrical performance.
• Integrity of Vehicle Systems: By providing a non-invasive method for circuit expansion, these fuse holders help preserve the vehicle’s original wiring harness and electrical system integrity. This is crucial for maintaining vehicle warranties, simplifying future diagnostics, and preventing unforeseen electrical issues.
• Enhanced Safety: The precise engineering and material selection minimize the risk of electrical faults, overheating, and fire. The independent fusing of the main and added circuits is a critical safety feature, ensuring localized protection.
• Ease of Installation: Designed for intuitive and straightforward installation, these fuse holders reduce installation time and complexity, making them suitable for both professional installers and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
• Durability in Harsh Environments: Built to withstand the challenging conditions common in commercial vehicles, including vibration, temperature fluctuations, and potential exposure to contaminants, ensuring long-term operational stability.
• Compliance and Standards: While specific certifications may vary, professional-grade components like this are typically manufactured to meet or exceed industry standards for automotive electrical components, ensuring compatibility and safety.

Conclusion

The Buyers Products ATM Type Low Profile Dual Fuse Holder with 10 Amp Main and 5 Amp Added capacities is an indispensable tool for safely and professionally expanding the electrical capabilities of modern vehicles. Its specific design, incorporating the compact ATM Low Profile fuse style, robust 14 AWG wiring, and independent dual fuse protection, addresses the complexities of integrating aftermarket accessories without compromising the vehicle's original electrical integrity. From critical commercial operations like snow plowing and spreading to a wide array of personal vehicle enhancements such as advanced lighting, dash cameras, and communication systems, this fuse holder provides a reliable, secure, and compliant solution. Investing in such professional-grade components ensures not only the optimal performance of added accessories but also the long-term safety and reliability of the entire vehicle electrical system, making it a cornerstone for any responsible electrical system modification.