Chosen Solution
keyboard backlighting not working
Review the IFIXIT guide here: MacBook Pro 15" Unibody Late 2008 and Early 2009 Logic Board Replacement] jump to Step 22 to make sure the ribbon cable is fully seated in the connector and the latch is folded down properly to secure the connection. If you have a VDM using some push pins as probe extensions test for voltage on the connector. Make sure you don’t short the connection points.