Would a bad overdrive relay cause the fuse to blow ?

Had an issue tonight where the trans dropped out of 4th gear into 3rd and when I had the chance to check things out the fuse was blown. Since I didn't have another relay I replaced the fuse only to have it blow again just a minute later.

IF I get the IPD bypass kit, I know you'd leave the relay disconected but would the fuse be necessary either at that point ??

Weighing my options on this one....

 

Check the wire that goes to the solenoid on the transmission. If the insulation is damaged or worn and the wire touches metal it will short out, blow the fuse and lock out 4th gear. The wire goes from the shift lever right to the transmission. My relay was bad and found a used one on E-Bay for $5 plus shipping. The local junkyard may have one. A new one is $55-60.