Electrical fuse #6 issue '83 US 320i

[jpupster]

I have a nice condition '83 US 320i and when I turn on the ignition switch only the number 6 fuse blows out. Number 6 is for the back up light pilot indicator lamps. fuel and engine temp gauges. Number 6 is an 8amp fuse.
I had this same issue the fuse blowing out about 6 months ago and a friend determined it was a tight fitting ignition key in the ignition barrel. We lubed the key with graphite and sorted out the problem.
I now have the problem again and I believe it is the ignition barrel? The car has been used by me for over 30 years. Ignition barrel, how do you fix that?

[uwbuurman]

If that, than just swap it. New ones can be ordered at the dealer.

But welcome here. Over 30 years, a long time! Got some pics of that cool 320i?

[Jeroen]

Welcome! Another known cause is the wiring for the backup lights. This is led into the passenger compartment along with the gear stick and foam, the wire insulation may be damaged causing a short to the chassis. If you remove the shifter boot you should probably already be able to see the wires.

Fuel and temp gauges working ok?

[jpupster]

No sir. the Fuel and temp gauges are not working with the number 6 blown fuse.

[uwbuurman]

I suppose that J means wether they are working correct, or are they malfunctioning, hence the fuse blow outs

[jpupster]

Oops. The fuel and temp gauges do work correctly. The don't work with the blown fuse.
I will look under the shifter boot. Thanks for the tip.

[jpupster]

I am still having trouble sorting out the electrical issue. It's in the trunk. Or when I hit a rough road... the fuse pops dead.

[Jeroen]

Meaning something is still causing an intermittent short. Think I would follow the wiring through the car, for example how the tail light wiring is running towards the front or the wiring of the fuel level sender under the cover under the rear seat. Sure the wiring for the backup lights is ok? Tow hook fitted? License plate bulbs ok?

[jpupster]

Success! Wonderful news. The wire was “pinched”. Got the on a lift and tugged on the green/white wire. Thanks for your concern. I’m going camping on the Smoky mountains where there are allot of twisties.

[Jeroen]

Great news, and have lots of fun there.... where a BMW is at its best!

[uwbuurman]

Ah, great!! And have fun, in the Appalachians!