85 dash lights and guages no worky

[cariboo4x4]

Buddys 1985 ford ranger, now that it runs, the dash lights for the guages does not work nor do any of the 4 guages. The dash lights up on the right side though and the instruments there work fine... any help would be appreciated.

 

[tnt4me]

Try to SLIGHTLY wiggle the ignition (where the key inserts). It is common for them to lose ground, then the gauges and windshield wipers stop working. You can adjust this under the column. Hope that is it and helps you out.

 

[cariboo4x4]

Oil gauge and water tempguage work but gas guage and alternator guage still does not work. I guess the ignition switch acts as a ground for many of these systems?

 

[tnt4me]

You are correct. Ignition switch has a ground in it. Mine used to do the same thing. Grounds on the Fords are imperative. No ground and things go wacky.