Dash lights out on 1987 Suburban

[PavementPounder]

Had the dash lights all fail together last night, so I am assuming it is a fuse (didn't feel like bothering with it at the time). The light behind the HVAC controls went out a couple weeks back. Don't know if that was just a bulb or if it is related to this.

Anyway, is the correct failure mode for dash lamp failure for the center under-dash courtesy light to then come on when you turn on the headlights?

 

[dhcomp]

Sounds like you need a new headlight switch. They are under $15, and do all sorts of wierd stuff when they go out.

Also, check your taillights, the dash lights are wired to fail with the tails, so that you know your tails are out.

Check bulb sockets, trailer wiring T under hitch, etc. Make sure its not full of water or corrosion

 

[K588]

When I bought my '88 K5 the dash lights wouldnt work. I had a spare headlight switch tried it they still wouldnt work. The parking lights both front and rear stay on all the time though. Any idea on this? I suck at tracking down electrical problems. It had trailer wiring on it which I believe I removed it all thinking this had to be the problem. I've just been dealing with it, but really need to fix it. I usually work on it a while get frustrated and go onto something else. Havent done it recently but more than once I checked all the fuses and they were good.

 

[dhcomp]

Lots of problems originate at that Y or T connector between the 2 sides in teh rear, where a trailer harness ties in. Make sure connections are clean. Also, check the tail light housings, etc.

 

[PavementPounder]

I jumped the gun and bought a new headlight switch, but it ended up only being a blown fuse.

However, the fuse that was in there was a 25. It should only have been a 20 and it still blew. (Took the opportunity to verify all the other amperages were correct while i was down there.) The headlight switch was only $11 at O'Reilly's, so I think I'm going to go ahead and install it anyway.