Two problems related to dash wiring have been reported for the 1996 Dodge Ram 2500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Normal driving. Truck has 138k miles. Headlights fail. Initially they go off, come on, then go off permanently. Can smell smoke from dash wiring harness. Manufacturer has a recall #819 that covers the 3500 series trucks with identical wiring and headlight switch part numbers, but will not cover the 2500 series trucks. This is a safety hazard and I have found multiple instances on the internet of other people having the same exact problem. Left unchecked, I'm certain this will result in a dash fire, property damage, and possibly death.
Power control module failed.