Using your advice, I grounded the little tang where the lens screws attach to the lamp housing. I was able to prove the root cause of my problem was (just as you suggested) a poor ground. The bad ground was a result of loose lamp mounting bolts that attach to the bracket. I tightened them up really good and the problem is solved! I'm back to having brake and driving lights.
Much obliged.
Bill
Side note: This was a big weekend for me. I drove my bolt roughly 80 miles on Friday, the most I've driven it in one sitting. I think I was paid a big compliment at the body shop where I'm getting bumper work done. A couple guys came out to do a lookover, and one guy said, "Yep, it even
smells like an old truck." ...at least I THINK it was a compliment.
