Nissan Repair: Instrument cluster out, gas gauge, nissan pickup

Question
Hi.  I am hoping you can lead me in the right direction.  I have a 97 Nissan pickup, 2.4, 5 speed standard, 4WD extended cab.  I noticed both my speedometer and tach quit working.  Then once I got home, all instruments and lights are out upon start.  I checked the meter fuse.  Was blown.  Replaced and blew right off.  And battery charging light on very lightly.  Gas gauge seems to be ok.  I am assuming a short and started looking at the wiring starting near engine where might of had a meltdown.  Did find damaged wires,  insulation melted but not through and do not appear shorted that go to front o2 sensor.  Separated them and also started checking other areas.Only work I have done recently was a catalytic converter to get CEL off for emission testing.  
Any ideas asto narrowing down the problem and solution.  I thank you in advance

Answer
Ray,

Go to Autozone or Checker and get a free electrical inspection.  It sounds like the alternator or regulator are going out.  Next, the cluster will have to be removed and inspected since it appears that the drop transformer is out and causing a short that causes the fuse to blow.