All gauges stopped on my 1986 C7

[Carl Fausett]

1986 C7D Medium-sized GMS truck. Had just replaced the alternator, and I did not know that the new/rebuilt on I had just installed was defective. Turns out it was putting out 18 volts (Internal Regulator model) and it cooked the batteries and something behind the dash. Was on theinterstate when we heard a crackling sound and saw smoke come up out of the dash thriough the center speaker grille. All gauges went to zero. Engine stiopped 20 seconds later, coasted to a stop at the side of the road. 

 

I have pulled the dash cover off, the heater ducts, ashtray, glovebox, everything I can and I do not see any charred or fried wires. Ignition switch seems to work fine. 

 

What am I missing? 

[Brian Lindsey]

any popped fuses

[Carl Fausett]

None.