1970 280 SL Smoke from under dash (electrical smell)

[johnm]

 Took my 280SL out for a quick drive and first noticed an electrical smell and then smoke coming from under the drivers side dash. disconnected battery and things settled down. Have not looked for the fault yet but appreciate any information on more common problems that might occur which cause burning of the wires or components versus a short circuit.  Thanks very much John

[WRe]

Hi John,
long time ago I had a similar problem with my /8 caused by a overheated/shorted dimming rheostat.
...WRe

[waltklatt]

John,
What have you done recently to your Pagoda?  Anything involving the lights?
Maybe the light switch is fried/frying from a short.
Walter

[johnm]

 Hi guys... coincidently I did have to repair a connection to my rear brake light and had disconnected the harness last evening. All was working fine though when I reconnected everything. Perhaps I missed something or a wire in the harness became crossed through disconnect/re-connect process. I'm definitely going to pay special attention to the lighting wiring and dash switch. I'm nervous as to how to diagnose without reconnecting the battery to see where the smoke may be coming from now that I have taken off the under dash pieces and can't see any apparent cause.
Appreciate further advise as I work my way through this one. J

[Scottcorvette]

If you saw smoke and smelt burning the likelihood is that you will see a melted wire or connector that should give you a good idea of where the problem might be.