The 1986 Chevy truck is equipped with an interior dashboard light. The dash light allows the driver to see the warning lights and gauges in the dark without producing glare that would obstruct the driver's view of the road.
Locate the 1986 Chevy truck's fuse box. Look under the dashboard on the left forward side of the driver's side.
Open the fuse box by hand.
Locate the dash light fuse. Look on the underside of the fuse box cover; the fuse arrangement is stamped on the cover.
Connect the ground wire of the test light to a solid ground source. The gas pedal is a good source.
Touch the test light probe to the left and then right post of the fuse. The test light should light up when either is touched.
Use needle-nose pliers to remove the burned-out fuse, if necessary.
Replace the old fuse with a new one by hand.
Visually inspect the red and black wires leading to the dash light plug for melted or damaged wire. If the wire is damaged, replace the damaged portions using new wire and wire connectors.
Connect the ground probe of the digital volt ohm meter to a good ground source.
Use the red probe to check the wire for positive voltage. The gauge should read 12 to 14 volts with the engine off. Replace the wires if it does not read 12 volts.
Remove the dash light bulb by hand and examine it for damage. If the light is damaged, replace it with a new bulb.
