new kid on the (engine) block

I know that was really bad, and I'm sorry. Just wanted to say hi to everyone. I just picked up an '84 300d for myself. My bride has a '99 E300 that is just awesome. She said she'll never part with it.

My car does have a couple of problems that we didn't notice before. For one, the dash lights aren't coming on, and there's no illumination for the window switches and heater panel buttons. Secondly, the left stalk that controls the high-beams and wipers isn't working properly. The high beams are on continuously because the stalk won't stay back far enough to keep them off(we're only talking a few millimeters of travel here!). If anybody has any ideas or help to offer, I'll put you in my will, ahead of the cats. Thanks in advance.

Kev