2001 Chevy Silverado - 2500HD, 8.1L V8. Why did all except 2 gauges stop working?

Replace the stepper motors on back of the cluster. They sell kits on eBay for this specific problem that you can do your self.

I suggest you take it to a ASE certified repair shop , it sounds like you know nothing about automotive electrical systems . I don't know who told you that a hot wire is touching ! I'd say they don't have a clue either ! From my 30years experience , I'd say the instrument cluster is bad , because I know GM had a lot of problems with them ! But if you still think you want to mess with it , you'll need to pull the instrument cluster out of the vehicle , find a wiring diagram an check the instrument cluster wiring harness an connector for bare wires an check for power an grounds with a DVOM - digital volt ohm meter !

1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
2. Observe the IPC.

Does the instrument cluster operate normally?
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Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems
Go to Step 3

3

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Disconnect the IPC.
3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
4. Connect a test lamp between the ignition 1 voltage circuit and a good ground.

Does the test lamp illuminate?
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Go to Step 4
Go to Step 7
Connect a test lamp between the ignition 1 voltage circuit of the IPC and the ground circuit of the IPC.
Does the test lamp illuminate? yes or no
Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the IPC. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition? yes or no
Repair the open or a high resistance in the ground circuit. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you complete the repair? yes or no
Replace the IPC. Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement .
Did you complete the replacement?