So this is kinda interesting... My '96 4.0 has stopped lighting up part of the dash instrumentation, namely, the HVAC controls, the lights for the rear wiper switch, etc. The instrument cluster and radio illuminate and respond properly to the dimmer. Headlights, tail/brake lights and signals are all working normally. All fuses are good.

In the interest of full disclosure: I have been in the dash fixing things. Before the issue occurred, the last thing I had done was swapped the tach in the gauge cluster, and I'm 98% certain that all the lights were working that evening during test driving. Yesterday, I repaired the hacked radio wiring harness, installed a factory radio and removed a bunch of random wiring leftover from a long-defunct security system, which as I found out wasn't connected to anything after all. (I had been putting this off for some time, it was a rat's nest.)

Anyhow, I know this is a reeeeally specific issue, just wondering if anyone might have any insights for the next time I open up my dash... I'll be digging in with the multimeter next weekend.

Thanks guys!

 

I have the exact same issue

 

Okay... Silly me... Next time I'll check the bulbs first. Still odd that two of them failed at the same time.

 

Mine came back on last night and tonight they're out again

 

The lamp for the heater/AC control head is a small twist-in socket. Mine is doing the same thing, coming on when I hold my mouth right I guess.....
Maybe when I pull the facia trim again, I'll glue that dam thing in. Really cheap-*** way to light those controls in my opinion.....