Dash and Taillights not working

[jokell]

I just bought this car from a friend, and I really like it so far. But there is one problem, for some reason the headlights work, but the the dash and taillights do not. All the fuses seem to be fine. Any help would be appreciated.

[Precise1]

Just for everyone else, the truck is a 93 2wd automagic.

I'd say you need to start checking wires... Do you have a diagram ? I'll see if I find anything in the manual tomorrow.

 

B

[88pathoffroad]

Replace both taillight bulbs first, just to rule out both old bulbs having a popped low wattage filiment. I've had that happen to me before. Does it have trailer wiring installed in the rear?

 

The dash dimmer switch may have gone out on you. A junkyard replacement would be the cheapest, easiest fix if possible. Otherwise, I have a few laying around I could send out for a few bucks.

[jj big shoe]

Check the fusible link wires up around the battery, too. They've given me headaches a few times.

[packie88]

or you could just check your fuses in general. when i first bought my car i had to replace a few.

[Mr. Pickles]

Definately check the fuses. I can't remember the name of it, but there is 1 fuse that powers both the dash and running lights, but the headlight will keep working.

[jokell]

first of all thanks for the interest i have gone the route of checking the fuses and bulbs and the are all good. there was trailer wiring installed but i have taken it out i am sort of thinking it might be the headlightswitch on the coloum because the cruise control doesnt work although the light for it comes on. how hard is it to get this switch out? does this sound reasonable? thanks again!

[Simon]

It's not hard to get out at all. If you take the plastic off the column, behind the steering wheel, you should see the screws and electrical connector to pull the switch out. The plastic parts are screwed together from underneath, at least, they were when I replaced mine in my 95 (which is slightly different) and it took me about 20 minutes.