i have been reading the posts to do with replacement bulbs for the shifter light, ignition light and the climate lights and i know which bulbs to use. the problem is that i do not know how to access each of these areas to get to the bulbs to replace them. can anyone help me with this?

 

The shifter light is easy on most trucks, just take out the screws on the side and lift up the cover, you'll be able to see the light. Then just take it and get a new one.

 

Dunno what year you vehicle is, might want to add that to your signature, helps people give you advice on the correct vehicle.
But if you have got an '85 or new one, this is a link to a Factory Service manual page that you might find helpful:
http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/index.html

 

climate light will either be above the controls or behind the controls.
If its a <1984, above the controls, remove the two screws and pull down the unit. PUll on the fixture on the back, and the light will come out. If its behind, pull off speed knob, and all the end caps on the levers, remove the nut on the speed selector, and pull the faceplate off. It should be visible from there.

Hope this helps