97 Thomas ER electrical questions?

[faderjockey]

Hi, first post! Recently bought a 97 Thomas Saf T Liner MVP ER. CAT 3116 with 160k miles. A few things I'm perplexed by and could use some help with diagnostics:

• I've noticed a clicking sound that comes from the dash area while it's running. It happens every 5-6 seconds.

• Sometimes all the warning lights across the dash above the steering column will light up when the bus is started. If I shut it down and restart they turn off.

• The speedo has no backlight. I'm assuming a burned out bulb. What is the best way to access that? Should I remove the black plastic cowling that surrounds the entire instrument panel or try to just remove the section that the speedo is in?

Thanks for any and all help. I have not been able to find solutions through google or forum searches.

[faderjockey]

Originally Posted by faderjockey

• I've noticed a clicking sound that comes from the dash area while it's running. It happens every 5-6 seconds.

This one solved, I think. This seems to be coming from the tach, clicking off tenths of a minute for the hour meter.

Originally Posted by faderjockey

• Sometimes all the warning lights across the dash above the steering column will light up when the bus is started. If I shut it down and restart they turn off.

Still not sure on this one...

Originally Posted by faderjockey

• The speedo has no backlight. I'm assuming a burned out bulb. What is the best way to access that? Should I remove the black plastic cowling that surrounds the entire instrument panel or try to just remove the section that the speedo is in?

Speedo light is working now. Headlight dimmer (twisting the knob) appears to need cleaning or replacing. Lights don't dim smoothly and go off and on.
Thanks for any and all help. I have not been able to find solutions through google or forum searches.