Gauge cluster backlights and daytime running lights out

2003 Tacoma 3.4 PreRunner

Hey, complete noob here, need some help - I had an instrument cluster light out, so I pulled apart the dash and replaced them all with LEDs, no problem. Then I realized my check-engine light was out too (didn't light up when starting), so I opened it back up to replace that too.

Now, none of the backlights on the guages are turning on (all the indicator lights are working), and also the daytime running lights won't turn on (recently changed those bulbs as well).

I think I might have busted the rheostat when I was disassmbling the dash, and I'm pretty sure those lights won't work with that out of circuit, but I tried to short-circuit that with it removed (I'm not sure if that would work, I was just hoping to complete the circuit), and still no luck. I checked fuses, and all are good. I'm waiting on a rheostat (this one) but wondering if there's anything else that might be wrong.

I would think that the DR lights would not need the rheostat in circuit, and since those are turning on I'm wondering if there's a relay or something I need to check?

What else might be wrong?

 

Following as I am hoping some electrical expert might chime in and help. My situation is similar but from a different cause and maybe something offered here will help me out too. Not trying to jump your thread at all, but hoping something in the know takes a look at my issue as well: Need Wiring Help. Screwed up my truck!!!! Blew something | Tacoma World