How can I test my dash lights

[MrJLR]

How do I check for continuity while my dash and harness are out?
I plugged in the main center plug, the headlight switch (turned it on) and put in a fuse in the instrument slot in the fuse block.

How do I test the instrument lights?

View attachment 20160108_082200.jpg

 

[4spdragtop]

Without harness connected I would use a 6v lantern battery.

 

[TrailBeast]

I use a 12v transformer from an old router and am able to test all the lights with the cluster out by touching each pin of the plug.
Just don't give the temp and gas gauge direct 12v, but go through the voltage limiter for those.

This is the modified cluster with LED strips for gauge and speedometer lighting on the bench being tested, and the Wife's 72 cluster unlit ready to go back in.

 

[AJ/FormS]

I use a multi-meter with the buzz position(9v)

 

[67Dart273]

If you are trying to test with the harness, you need the tail light circuit and fuse to be "live."

So hook a ground to the cluster and you should add a ground pigtail anyhow.

Hook battery to the main "hot" buss in the fuse panel.

You need fuses in BOTH the tail and the inst fuse positions. Don't forget the dimmer control "turn to the left."

Otherwise, as Steve said, you can (carefully) apply battery power to the inst pin on the cluster and ground.

 

[krazykuda]

I just use a continuity tester and check each bulb in it's socket.