I have taken apart my dash and removed the instrument cluster (some fun getting it out). I replaced all the little bulbs in the back of the instrument panel/cluster and am in the process of reinstalling the cluster. I managed to get the 4 electrical plugs reconnected but am having some difficulty reconnecting the speedometer cable. It is tought because you have to reach in behind the cluster - there isn't much space and you can't see either. I just can't seem to make the connection.

Anyways, the dash gauges all work (other than the speedometer of course). I have not yet put the dash back together. I did drive the vehicle today and at some point all the dash gauges stopped working. Also, my power windows will not work nor my heater fan. Something has gone wrong. Was it a bad idea to drive the vehicle without all the dash connections back together (ie. the dash dimmer switch, the rear defrost button etc). I have found that my fuse for the instrument panel is burned out. What else might I have done - what other fuses etc?

Any advice/comment greatly appreciated

 

There is no harm in driving while having non-critical electrical components unconnected. I think you somehow had a electrical short since everything in the dash is out and the fuses blew.

Make sure there are no shorts or loose electrical wires touching each other or ground. Check all fuses and replace any blown fuse.

It happened to me while working with the electrical stuff in my truck! gotta be careful of electrical shorts