First off, the 1988 240 wiring harness was "cured" of the crumbling insualtion problem. Check your build date (label on rear edge of LF door) and if it's in early 1987 that harness may be suspect.

I have noted while changing out headlight/front corner light units that the wiring to the corner lights seem to have crumbling insulation. Left light being near to the battery - that may have an effect. Have a look at the wiring where it is close to the light unit and near the connector.

Dashboard warning lights. When in Positon II, engine not started, you should see warning lights for alternator, oil pressure, parking brake, brake failure, and bulb failure.

That key postion is sometimes called the Bulb Check position, since a light expected but not lit is usually a burnt bulb. Are you getting all those lights in Bulb Check position?

If you are getting warning lights for parking brake and battery, AND in Bulb check you get only those two and oil pressure, then there is a wiring problem and a burnt bulb problem.

Wiring - look at the back side of the alternator. There is a small gauge red wire that should be connected to a spade lug on the alternator. If it, or its connecting wire, touches a ground - the warning lights come one, except the oil light.

Check this stuff and post back. Help is on the way.

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)