ammeter and dash lights not working

[takehikes]

since I got my truck 18 months ago the dash lights and ammeter have not worked, everything else does.
Dash lights are new bulbs, no blown fuses.
I did buy a new headlight switch to put in to see if that cures it but have not installed yet.
What about the ammeter?
Ideas?

[basketcase0302]

takehikes » Wed Sep 28, 2016 8:35 am

since I got my truck 18 months ago the dash lights and ammeter have not worked, everything else does.
Dash lights are new bulbs, no blown fuses.
I did buy a new headlight switch to put in to see if that cures it but have not installed yet.
What about the ammeter?
Ideas?

The dash light is easy. You can test it for 12 volts coming out of it pretty easily, (but usually the on the potentiometer on the headlight switch is at fault) I have a good used switch for sale if you don't want to buy a cheap repop made in china.
The amp meter is a lot of work to restore usually as it requires replacing the shunt wiring from the switch back to the alternator.

[takehikes]

Thanks for the info.
Like I said I already have a switch (LMC so cheap) but we shall see how it works when I replace that. Otherwise I'll chase it as you indicated.
Ammeter would be nice to have working since the other gauges do. May set that aside for now though.
I'm probably going to put in a 3 gauge set underdash anyways to go with my period correct modifications I am making......

[basketcase0302]

If it's a voltmeter, (not an amp meter) it's much easier to repair.
Running the new shunt wiring, (usually the cause of the issue) can be a pain.
And good luck with the LMC switch as most the lmc electrical parts are china in origin and junk right out of the box.

[takehikes]

Its a 68 so I assumed ammeter and not voltmeter but I could be wrong. Ill check it out.
Soon as I got the switch I realized it may be a piece of crap but it also may be better than the one I have! LOL