1986 Lincoln Continental : 302 C.I. 8 cylinder : 150,000 mi.

My digital dashboard went completely out. Not one light or image available. I've been told that there are "solenoids" behind the dashboard that need replacing. Is this true? How many solenoids are there?
There is not one fuse, that is bad, I have checked every one of them. I was also told that there was a fuse box under the hood, but I have not found any such box there.
Without any lights, I have no speedometer, gas gauge, or access to any other information contained there.
Thank you.