986 engine just stopped running!!

[kerrywittig]

1999 986 Boxster, 60k miles, no check engine light, new cam sensors and air/oil separator within the last 25 miles (to correct a check engine light), oil pressure & water temp fine, all electric works except starter.
Driving along and the car just stops running. Engine is free and no bad mechanical noises. It’s as if I just turned the ignition off. Starter doesn’t spin or engage.
Any ideas?
Thx in advance for any insight and help that the community can offer.
Kerry

[Beelzy]

Check the ignition switch. Fiddle with it to see if things change.

[kerrywittig]

Found that fuse C1 (25amp) was blown.
Replaced fuse, engine started for a couple seconds and died. Immediately noticed that there was a puff of electrical smoke that came from the passenger/right side of the engine compartment (engine cover was removed)...

Now the question is, if it’s not obvious as to what is shorting out...what should I look for?

[Geof3]

Check your o2 sensors/wires. One of mine had damage somehow and it would short circuit the injector feed. Dead stop. What happens to the lights on the dash? Mine required rewiring the o2 sensor harness with a new connector etc.

[kerrywittig]

Found shorted and burnt wires(2) at VVT BANK 1-3.
I have read it’s a huge task to remove it...