recently, the gauge cluster and dash interior lost lighting. any ideas of what electrical components this could be?

 

Your light switch. Thats what mine did, the wiring harness for the switch could also be shot. I replaced both and have had no problems since.

 

Covered in the FAQ for FC sticky thread, found both here at the top of this technical section as well as at the top of the new member technical section.

As covered there, if it is not the dimmer turned too low, then it will be a bad headlight switch and light switch harness. Replace both.

 

thank you for the information, i am reluctant to look through the faq as i should. i appreciate the guidance.

 

It doesn't bite... you should not feel reluctant at all.

Here is a link: https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generation-specific-1986-1992-17/frequently-asked-questions-2nd-generation-rx-7-faq-fc-494667/