I've been trying to figure out why my gauges only work properly when my headlights are on. when i have the switch in the off position they don't read accurately and when i do have the switch on they seem to work right. also when my car is stopped and idling my dash lights dim and slowly pulsate brightness, the head and tail lights are unaffected, and my right turn indicator glows but still works when i use it. could it be a bad headlight switch or maybe the constant voltage regulator or both. i don't want to just throw parts at the car until i have a better idea of what is causing the issue.

 

Swing by a auto parts store with a competent fella working there and have them check your alternator. I doubt this is the problem because your headlights arent pulsing but its free and easy to do.

To check your constant voltage regulator pop the wires off your oil, fuel and temp sending units and stick a multimeter in them. They should be a steady 5-6 volts DC with them all disconnected(engine running, lights off). If they are not steady pull your cluster out and check the input voltage to the CV regulator that it isnt low for some odd reason. Also check that the ground for the regulator is still good. Bad grounds can do weird things as the electrcity finds another path. If the input and ground is good and the output is bad then its the regulator.

If that checks good let us know and we can take it from there.

ETA: just reread your post and your dash lights are dimming also. Your CV regulator doesnt tie into your dash lights only the gauges themselves. Definatly make sure your alternator and alternator regulator are in good shape first. Got to have a good source before anything else.