I've always read posts like this but can't search them.

After completing the blower motor, I decided to start the car to get heat and test everything. (ie reconnected the battery).

I shorted out the clock red wire (tiny clock) with the ground while installing it. The spade connector had come off leaving it exposed and the indicator lights lit up. The car was off at this time.

Now the instruments are fine, but when I switch the lights on, the tach drops and the indicator lights come on dimly.

I checked the fuses, all fine.