I have a 1996 Ford Ranger 2.3L 2WD with 267K miles. The battery recently overheated due to a bad alternator. I've replaced both and am having some success removing the horrible cabin smell of fried wires by the age old process of 2 and 50. I do, however, need some help with a few electrical problems. I am not great with electrical but can follow good input/directions. I have a SEEKONE scan tool that may help with diagnosis. I have also removed the under dash cover and haven't identified any charred or burned wires, thus far.

Here is what does work:

o Headlights, taillights, and brake lights all function normally.
o Cabin Fuses – a couple went bad so replaced them.
o Engine Compartment Fuses – all seem fine.
o Blower, heater, and radio all work.

Electrical Problems

o Instrument cluster
--Only the battery and seat belt lights illuminate at engine start up. The seatbelt light flashes on and off while in park w/out seat belts on, but stays solidly lit with seat belts latched.
--None of the gauges function (fuel gauge, water temp, speedometer, oil pressure, or battery gauge).

o Dimmer Switch – Works for lights behind the instrument cluster but not the cabin/dome light.

o Cabin/Dome light - Inoperable

o Flashers and Hazard are inoperable and make a horrible buzzing sound when activated.
--I replaced the blue flasher relay under the dash (no change in operations)

o Turn Signal Switch - Wipers and water spray are inoperable. However, the headlight high beams function normally.

o Headlight warning chime for "headlights on" when ignition is turned off is inoperable.


If you have input/guidance on all or a part of these problems I thank you in advance.