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?

 

[Corey383]

Does anyone have a clue why the brake light in the dash is always on in every 80’s truck and Ramcharger? Is there something I’m missing? Yes, the brakes are fine.

 

[captainchrysler]

Never had a problem with that light staying on on any of the ones I've had over the years.
Two things will turn that light on. 1) and imbalance in the front to rear pressures at the proportioning valve. 2) The parking brake is on, or the switch thinks it's on. Unplug both of those wires to determine where the issue is. If it does still stay on then the problem (most likely) is at the printed circuit board, perhaps a very unlikely back feed or a wire got pinned wrong into the connector.

 

[Corey383]

Thanks Captain