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Mixmanbob · 10-10-2014, 11:43 AM

We are experiencing problems with our toad. When 1st started all is well. When we start to drive we loose all gauges, displays, cruise, etc. It runs fine, has lights and dash lights. All gauges are not reading. Things will come on and off occasionally. Ignition switch, grounding? Has anyone had this experience? Thanks!

Skip426 · 10-10-2014, 06:53 PM

Does your Dakota have a sun roof ?
Was it raining around the time this problem started to occur?
Reason I ask is , just prior to my retirement from Chrysler dealership, in 07, we were having similar issues with Durango's with sunroofs running drain water into the body control module connections and causing all sorts of electrical issues.

Mixmanbob · 10-10-2014, 11:24 PM

No Sun roof. We are in a wet climate, western Washington. This truck sits a lot outside and is not used a lot unless we take it behind the MH. I thought I would inspect and clean grounds. Sometimes it seems like I can wiggle the ignition switch and everything comes on....sometimes it doesn't..so I don't know if that really happens. The only thing I have done to the electrical system is to add a TOAD CHARGE SYSTEM. I will check those connections also. Thanks for your response.

nothermark · 10-11-2014, 06:06 AM

It sounds like a connector problem. Might fix it by wiggling or reseating the right one. The movement cleans the contacts. Most vehicles seem to work better if they are run around a bit. I'd make a point of driving it once a week or so for a lot of reasons.

wa8yxm · 10-11-2014, 06:21 AM

Generally when all the gauges go out its' the ground lead for the dash.

Yup, many RVers have a few screws loose... One of them on this Motor home held one of the dash ground leads.

Another had to do with the radio (This one was a connector though not a screw) and you'd not believe how many in the 120 volt power distribution center....

But bad grounds are the #1 cause of your symptom, alas not the only, just the #1

Skip426 · 10-11-2014, 09:36 AM

If playing with the key makes any difference then perhaps removing the clam shell column covers and checking the connectors on the switch is in order too. Check in your owners manual for fuse applications, to see if the gauges are on a dedicated fuse , poor connection there may be your issue.

Mixmanbob · 11-01-2014, 05:42 PM

I have the dash covers off the drivers side. If I move the tilt wheel or wiggle the harness I can make everything go on and off. Can anyone tell me how to remove the clamshell? I see two holes on the bottom but I can't figure out if there are screws or some sort of clips. The sides snap apart, but something is holding it in the center...Thanks!

Pds47 · 11-01-2014, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mixmanbob

I have the dash covers off the drivers side. If I move the tilt wheel or wiggle the harness I can make everything go on and off. Can anyone tell me how to remove the clamshell? I see two holes on the bottom but I can't figure out if there are screws or some sort of clips. The sides snap apart, but something is holding it in the center...Thanks!

plastic clip holds it together after all screws are out, pry very carefully as they may break ( Experience )