going in reverse order... It seems as though I have power all the way thru the circuit to x27. And when I supply power direct to x27 from Bat I get start. This puzzles me.

I do have a nice battery charger and topped everything up and battery reads 12.5 I will test it under load though.

I'm not familiar with the k38 or pulling the instrument cluster. any pointers to forum discussion appreciated.

I was puzzled by the continuity on x49/2 here is the break down for your mental fun.
i = infinite resistance
0= zero resistance

In Park
Switch on
1=i
2=0
3=0
4=0
switch off
1=0
2=0
3=0
4=0

In Reverse
switch on
1=i
2=i
3=i
4=0
switch off
1=0
2=0
3=i
4=0

in neutral
switch on
1=i
2=0
3=i
4=0
switch off
1=0
2=0
3=i
4=0
I can't find any fuses labeled with ata but have replaced number 5 and tested all.