I searched through the forum and found several posts about dash lights being out but didn't see anything like the problem I'm having.

The headlights, taillights and parking lights all work. But no dash or center console lights. BUT! When I turn on the switch, they briefly illuminate before going out.

That feels like a ground to me, what do the experts say? And if it is a ground problem, where am I looking? Is it easier to add a ground somewhere instead of looking?

(FYI, The entire interior has apart so factor that into your thinking. The same idiot who took it apart, put it back together, so....)

 

Play around with the rheostat dial that controls dimming of the dash lights. It seems to develop a dead spot if it isn't used regularly, see if turning it a few times makes a difference.

 

Better still, bypass the rheostat.
Also, find the 12v wire that feeds this system and check its continuity and the fuse holder and change the fuse, they often go iffy at this age. Fuse 4 in the main fuse box does the panel lights and the reversing lights.

 

Hi Bullitandy

I had the same problem, just a few Weeks ago when I only had 9 volts in the Battery, where once fully charged to 12 volts only then would the dash lights come on

 

Bullitandy,

Like orange blossom I also had the same problem on my 96 xjs.

There is a relay on the engine side wall where there is 4 or 5 relays mounted. The second relay in controls the front side marker lights and the dash lights. Replaced the relay and the dash lights started working again.

Not sure it’s the same on the 92 but worth a look see.


thanks

Softball60/Paul

 

SOLUTION! Thanks for insights about the lighting system because that's what got me there.

I started looking around and discovered that when re-installing my interior, including the gauge cluster and surrounding trim and switches, that the fog light switch was not plugged in entirely. For whatever reason, there is NO slack in that harness and I didn't have it clicked and then while looking around and check things, discovered it. pics to follow

 

Here are some pics. I completely disconnected the harness for fig lights for demonstration