Dim dash lights

[dogface]

1988 Dodge 100 lights. I've turned the switch as far up it goes but the dash lights are still on the dim side, AC-heat controls next to dash is bright (separate I’m sure) switch, bad ground or connector on back of dash? Ideas?
Also the oil pressure and gas gauges read low

 

[captainchrysler]

Bad ground 99% sure. The ground is probably back feeding right now.

 

[69DodgeMan]

corrosion on/in the rheostat? corrosion = resistance, resistance = voltage drop, voltage drop = dim lights


common issue with many older mopars with a rheostat for lamp control.

 

[dogface]

I checked it before ya'll post, the light in the AC panel goes from nothing to bright when light switch is turned. But dash lights get to about half so where would the ground be on the dash assembly?