did some more checking this afternoon. looked at what i think is the "tail light relay?" the relay was hot to the touch and the truck had not be run all day. could this relay be the suspect? tried testing it like the FSM says too but my multi-meter seems to have taken a dump so i just ordered a new relay from napa just in case. well see what happens. thanks

85 Toyota Pickup 4x4 22r 4in lift 32in BFGs