if the ceramic body is no longer at full length then it no longer exerts full tension on the metal band from end to end in the fuse holder. so, it could work/fail erratically due to operational vibrations. you could pinch the fuse block terminals closer and have function til you get �to where you might be able to buy replacement(s). if it's a fuse that's been pulled/replaced frequently, the splayed terminals may be the problem. actually, a snapped ceramic fuse can be glued back together with cyano-acrylate. when dry , put the metal strip back on and it'll be ah-ite. hope this gets ya closer to the prize. keep yer stick on the ice. � � � � � � � �mike

________________________________
 From: neil n <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
Sent: Saturday, February 23, 2013 3:07 PM
Subject: Re: Repost. Troubleshooting a Circuit
 
Sorry. Wasn't clear. Meant:

can the fuse itself develop a hair line crack and fail.

Neil.