I did replace the pigtails. I just ordered ready-made ones with the sockets attached.
I also installed a new junction block on the inner fender as it was when new. All that mess with the black tape and dime store connectors was what I replaced. Previous owner had done a less than stellar re-wiring job.
I also initially replaced the dimmer switch as you did but it didn't help. As it turns out, the original dimmer switch was probably perfectly fine. I discovered that the previous owner - who had dyslexia - mixed up the hot wire and the high beam wire on the dimmer switch. When I turned on the headlights they only worked on high beam. Whn I pressed the button to go to low beam, they went off completely.
When you complete your headlight repair, I strongly recommend buying Sylvania sealed beam halogen lamps (if they're available). I have Phillips lamps on the truck and they are excellent. I have have Sylvania lamps on my Cadillac and I believe them to be superior.
It's also important to make sure that your headlamps are aimed properly. You'll know right away when you drive at night if they need adjusting.
1950 Chevrolet 3100 (Ol' Roy)
1939 Packard Standard Eight Coupe (The Phantom) | 1956 Cadillac Coupe de Ville (The Bismarck) | 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 coupe |1966 Ford Mustang (Little Red) | 1969 Pontiac GTO (The Dishpit) I 1979 Ford F-100 | 1976 Ford F-150 (Big Red) | 1995 Ford F-150 (Newt)