Well, sort of. I had the chance to deal with the infamous fuse 16 in the 740s today. I was driving along, noticed a slightly electrical smell, and then smoke started pouring out from behind the ashtray. The original fuse in the board had melted, and the PO had it rewired by the dealer. The new fuse was put to the side of the fuse board, and now it too melted. I figure for now, I will just rewire a new fuse into there, but how can I prevent this from happening again long term? The blower motor makes a lot of noise [sqealling] when cold, so it could probably use a replacement...
--
'85 745T

Sorry I don't know what causes this but I had the same thing happen. Eventually the car burned down from another cause before I could address the issue. I do remember the additional fuse holder burning also. My mechanic said there is a cure for this and it relates to how the fuse is rewired, but it should not happen at all. On my 1989 740 turbo the fuse panel is clean with no burnt fuse issues. so far so good. This sounds like a Volvo problem as I hear this on 700 series. Maybe there is something that Volvo is aware of.Also I hear that a blower motor going out puts stress on the fuse even though when my fuse burnt again the fan was running good.

Though I am not formiliar with the 16 fuse. I am curious, what does the fuse go to. (not up on my fuses, haynes manual outside) I should think that would be your main concern. Fix the source of the problem, then rewire a new fuse, there must be something going on.

Blower motor is probably starting to sieze, the noise will get louder and start to eventualy do it no matter how high the setting is on. After markets are about $40-50. You could go bosch but it will cost you a pretty penny. I have taken one out of the salvage yard in a pinch. I test it while I am there befor purchase. Just bought one yesterday for $8, don't know how long it will last but for now it will do. Carefull about letting the blower go for too long or you will blow the fuse. Every time you let it go it will get worse...

anastasia
1986 740t silver wagon 362k