I am not 100% sure but the top fuse on that model is for the instrument cluster.
Its not unheard of for the instrument cluster fuse to blow.
Without the instrument cluster, the BEP may leave some wires un-terminated or direct excess voltage to the instrument circuit meant to be grounded by the cluster, leading to a short and causing the fuse to blow.
The instrument cluster wiring is also tied into warning lights and diagnostic functions, so removing it or leaving its connector open can create a "dead end" or short in the circuit.