mac, just because at or near the battery there is a "skinny" wire doesn't necessarily mean it is a fusible link. 1) Fusible links are most always in the POSITIVE side. 2) Many times @ the starter , where it saves the day when someone improperly does a "Reverse connected" jump-start. 3) Can be also located up at the battery for the latter reason , and/or to protect a "downline Ckt." like any other fuse. 4) Usually all they are "Electrically" is a wire TWO sizes SMALLER , whereas it will "Fuse" or Burn-up / disintegrate ( as what fuses do
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5) NEVER USE a NORMAL WIRE 2-sizes smaller !!! It WILL catch fire .
Fusible link has a type of plastic covering which contains the disintegration long enough AND without the possibility of fire , until a "Clean" & "Total break".
6) A "skinny" wire on negative side is generally kind of a strap to Body (metal) ground , since heavy black neg. cable is usually directly to "Block" . 7) Know for sure ,via FSM schematic etc., that you ARE redoing a "Fusible Link" (2 sizes down ,needed) and not just a "skinny wire" .
8 ) Various sized , generic , Fus. Links are available a at most auto parts stores- SIZE Matters
9)Unless your experienced in electrical re-work , for there are half dozen ways to attach wires , best shown "Live & in person" (ex., I like a positive "mechanical ,twist- or braid" WITH solder
) 10) You CAN , but no need to buy a "designated part # " of fusible link for 20 times the $$$$$$
Good luck, G 3/27/2018