1998 Dodge Dakota Dash lights out

My dash/console lights are out, including where the knobs for the heater are. A couple of times I had hit a bump or closed the door just right and they came back on and stayed on until I shut the lights off. All the exterior lights work except for the exterior upper brake light on the cab, which is blocked by the truck cap. I replaced the fuses that had anything to do with lights, even if they looked ok, just in case. I would check the ground, but I don't have a clue as far as wires; what I have been able to get to appear to be intact. No work has been done; stereo installation etc. That could cause it. I want to try to solve it first, shop charges are not really in the budget right now. Your help is ver much appreciated!