Tail lights dash lights running lights. Not starting

1978 nissan/datsun 510 wagon not wanting to start. Also taillight and dash light not working? I bought this car with 62,000 miles. Originally I had to replace numerous vacume lines, clean out the fuel lines and the tank because the car had sat for a while. My issue now is (it could Just be the weather) I will drive the car to work during the day with no problem but when I leave at 1 or 2 am (temperature has been between 15 and 35 degrees) the car will usually start up fine then fail a mile down the road. My guesses are that its just to cold for the old motor (which is original) or that I need to replace my carburetor considering that I was told it had issues. Could one of these or a combination of the two be the cause of my problems? Or are there other known issues with this car that I'm not aware of. I'm not mechanically inclined so any suggestions would be appreciated. The other issue is my headlights, blinkers, brake lights and dome light all work but my taillights and dash lights and running lights are not. I have checked the bulbs and all the fuses and all are fine. I was told to check the switch. Does that sound probable? If so where could I find a diagram for this vehicle showing me how to be able to check the switch because if I just jump in there and try to remove it I will undoubtedly break it. Thanks for any help or attempt at.