Lighting problem question

[ValiantMike]

I have a 1997 Dodge 2500 Cargo van I use for work and recently the instrument panel lights as well as the front and rear running (park&tail) lights stopped working when I pulled on light switch. When you first pull switch on a little (1/8 inch), instrument lights and running (park&tail) lights would work, but after pulling switch on out to park light position or headlight position, they would go back out. Headlights, brakelights and blinkers all work fine. I checked all bulbs, fuses, wiring and connections and all looked good. I figured maybe headlight switch was bad so I bought a new one at dealer and installed with same results. I double checked fuses, connections, wiring, etc.,and again all looked fine, so I bought another headlight switch, thinking maybe I had purchased a defective one, and again the same results. I don't know what to do next and was hoping some of you guys(or girls) might know if I'm missing something or could suggest where I might find the problem so I can start driving after dark again. Any helpful info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Mike

 

[briankaplan]

Check the ground for the dash lites. A bad connection could be a cause. Also
check to see if there is a splice in the wiring going to the dash. Bad connection there could be a possible problem. Good luck. Green Duster.

 

[ValiantMike]

Thanks for the reply Brian. I'm going out now to give it another try. I guess what you said is the only thing left it can be. Thanks again. Mike

 

[ValiantMike]

Hey Brian, I owe you a couple cold beers. Found a loose ground connection screw up behind instrument cluster. Thanks for the help. Mike