turn signals, headlights, combination meter dead. fuse 8 immediately blows

Hey folks, I could really use some advice...

I've got a '86 mighty max, 4wd, G54B engine.

M problem is with the #8 fuse, it blows immediately when i turn the ignition. I believe it's connected to the turn signals, fuel gauge, temp gauge, and headlights (these are all dead). My backup lights and 4wd indicator lights are out, too.

Any tips for how to go about solving this? I have the original dealer manual with wiring diagrams... Or should i take it to a shop come Monday?

Thanks!

look up the manual on the site here or use the diagrams from my site from the haynes manual

http://www.mmeierle.com/Wiring%20Diagrams.htm

I posted earlier about my low beam fuse blowing and it turned out that my battery hold down broke, which allowed my battery to slide forward against the headlamp socket and bend the prongs together, which shorted the circuit. I straightened the prongs, replaced the hold down and I am back in business.