Need help with dash lights and power going out - intermittent of course

[siuco]

Hi. On our recent trip, the power to our dash instruments went dead - to be more specific, the wipers, all the gauges (fuel, temperature, volts, etc.), PacBrake and back-up monitor went dead. BUT the headlights, dash lights and engine functions remained on. (Thank God as we were driving around the mountains, pitch black in the rain!)

Once stopped, I removed all the dash panelling and check for obvious dis-connects and followed the wiring to where nothing was found un-plugged. My thoughts are the ignition solenoid in the wiring compartment under the drivers corner (on the outside) is defective. Before I got out and buy one (hoping they are not too expensive), can anyone suggest what else I should be checking?

It started up ok, the power was restored, but only to return to the dead state, on again-off again.

It is a 1994 Monaco Dynasty 38 footer. Thanks for any advice. (Any way to get the part number so I can order one or go buy one?)

Cheers,
Gary

[rex]

You could carefully use a jumper cable across the two large lugs on the solenoid where the red cables are attached to see if it restores your power. If it does, the solenoid is bad. If that doesn't restore power, look for a bad ground going to the dash.

[siuco]

Thanks Rex. I just ended up replacing the solenoid anyway. It was only $22 (cheap in this recreation I'd say - haha). Seems to have fixed the problem - knock on wood.