Aircooled VW South Africa

lets throw a spanner in the works...
everything on the back cluster runs via a switch of some sort, which will cut the positive supply. So it doesnt matter how bad the wiring or the earth, if there is no pos supply, there is no power consumption. If it is the rear cluster causing your issue, then you also have a faulty switch in the front somewhere.
The only other thing you have recently played with is the regulator - so thats where I would say the issue lies.
That or you have a new problem with something else that isnt isolated by the ignition switch (i.e. interior light) that is either on or has developed a new fault.

If it is the regulator/alternator feel it with your hands, should be warm

Thanks Tony.

Well, got the rear cluster back up and working. cleaned up all the terminal connections etc, and now back to normal. So, Will monitor each day and see if there's an issue. still. For now all is good, so, Well done Bokke, great Rugby..

Al