So I just bought my highboy about a week ago, from a retired "mechanic." May have really been a mechanic, most of the part he replaced are done right, but the wiring is an absolute nightmare. He wired a new horn into a random wire in the dash, put in a new radio (which seem to have been done right, it plays, just no antenna), and moved the temp and oil pressure gauges(new ones work). Nothing else that's electrical in the cab works though, the gauges and lights are out, including the dome light(new bulb).



The instrument panel is currently pulled out, and we(w/my electrician friend) tested the wires that connect to the back of it, they ARE showing that they are at least getting some kind of power. We can tell that the previous owner really messed with the dash, the speedometer cable isn't even present. Just wondering if anyone else has ever dealt with this big of a mess. Should I just try and buy a new instrument panel and circuit? or buy a whole new wiring harness or can I make it a lot easier and cheaper? Please note I don't know hardly anything about truck wiring but would like to learn and do it myself

Should probably make note that all exterior lights work, and everything else is working correctly (so far).

 

Why is it some "mechanics" have the crappiest personal vehicles? Just like a contractor who has the dumpiest house on the block?

1. Their workmanship only counts when someone else is paying for it.

2. They've grown complacent because "they'll get to it one of these days".

3. They have no time because of making payroll, the mortgage, and the dedicating time to the wife/kids.

4. All of the above.

-------------------------

To the OP, figure out what works and what doesn't. That means testing everything. Then trace one circuit at a time to identify the hacks.

 

I just went through a similar situation.
I cleaned the connector plug for the instrument panel.
Replaced the 3 amp fuse for the instrument panel.
Pulled the headlight switch and cleaned the area where the rheostat rotates on the pickup wire. Pulled all my exterior light bulbs (sides markers, brake, parking light) and sanded the bulb socket contacts.
Believe it or not, everything now works.
Can't beat a good connection or a proper ground.
Bob

 

Welcome to FTE and the life of buying a old Ford truck that some hack owned. We have all been there or are still there. lol

Come here and read and self educate.... https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...then-some.html

Is the headlight switch turned to make the dash lights go full bright? Turn it to just before the lock on the dome light notch. No dome light...fuse, bulb, stuck door switches....

Ck fuses? Troubleshoot before you just go buy new $$ parts, if you just get new parts and do not fix the power problem, I doubt that a new instrument cluster will fix it.

Infact go to the 4 top of this forum RED READ 1ST threads and enjoy the info. Its there every day all day, and so are we, just please do a little home work ok?

Also a Chilton or Hanes cheapo manual will help out with the basics.