I have an 82 1.6 diesel and for a bit now I have been experiencing
weird stuff when i turn on the headlights witht he van running.  When
I do this, the instrument cluster goes off, but when I shut the van
off (key in ignition) the instrument cluster comes back on.  Anyway,
I was told to check grounds, switches, etc.  I pulled the switch and
tested it and then opened it up by pushing in the flaps on the side.
This is the switch that is a three way rocker with a wheel
underneath.  The switch turns interior and headlights on, and the
wheel adjusts interior intensity.  It's a square switch with 6 prongs
off the back.  Anyway, I opened it up and there was oil/grease on a
lot of the contacts.  A few pieces fell out and I was able to figure
out where all of them go except the little ball bearing.  Anyone know
what this ball bearing is for?  I have a hunch that the little spring
on the bottom rests on it, but I wasn't able to get the switch back
together working.

Any thoughts?

dave