2002 Camry: 10a gauge fuse keeps blowing

[Sinclair]

Greetings. I have a 2002 Camry, 4 cyl, manual transmission, with 110k miles. Recently the 10a gauge fuse has blown, and continues to do so about every 3 days. Speedometer, RPM, gas level, outside air temp, turn signals - all dead. (Yet, when pushing hazards, the green signal indicator will work and so will the rear turn bulbs in back of car). Other forums have found that shifting from park to drive can cause something like this, but this is a manual transmission.

A trusted mechanic has spent hours trying to find the culprit without much luck. We have replaced the alternator and battery. When it first started, we discovered that with that fuse blown, the alternator would behave unusual, overcharging the battery. Alternator would also overheat (?).

Also after replacing the alternator, engine idle was cured. Prior to replacing alternator, engine would barely sustain an idle. We have checked the trunk for possible shorts in wires around hinges, etc, no luck. Finally, mass air flow sensor needs to be replaced, and is causing engine light to be on for last 4 years. Could this have any connection to fuse?