Reverse light switch

[thequickervicar]

Ok, so let me get this straight. There is no fuse inline between the trans switch and the backup lights (not listed on the fuse diagram anyway). And the R380 reverse switch is completely inaccessible above the trans oil cooler lines. The wires do not pull out of the switch (at least not easily), so how does one remove the switch with the wires still intact? What style/size wrench is required?

I have no backup lights and the bulbs are tested-good. They won't go on even if I hold pressure on the lever. It's the last bit I need to pass state inspection with this beast & I'm at the end of my rope.

 

[thequickervicar]

Nothing?

 

[1MITCH1]

Does the inspector stand outside while you engage reverse to activate the lights? If so hot-wire them to a switch until you can fix it.

 

[thequickervicar]

It's a good thought, but in PA the inspections are all done by independent garages. I also thought of running them to a switch on the console. That way I could simply add a work light to the circuit when I find a safari rack. But I don't know if a switch will pass PA regs.

 

[thequickervicar]

I was having difficulty reaching it from the bottom so I pulled the console to attack it from the top. Well, it's not any better. I literally cannot fit my thick hands between the gearbox, oil lines, & trans tunnel. I DID manage to find the harness connectors (zip-tied to the top of the tranny, unreachable with wire cutters from the bottom side), so I tested the switch. Dead. I also jumped the wires at the connector with the ignition on. Dead. Still no lights.

Looks like I'll have to rig up a new momentary switch on the shifter tower & rewire some of the circuit. I'll try to post pics along the way.

 

[I HATE PONIES]

Can you loosen up the trans mounts and lower it down a bit?

 

[thequickervicar]

I thought of that, but that could put a fair amount of stress on the oil lines. I DON'T want to harm them. Yet.

 

[thequickervicar]

Good news!! Cleaned up the harness/plug & I have a functioning circuit again! Switch is still dead, but I'll take whatever progress I can get. New momentary switch coming from McMaster-Carr tomorrow (hopefully).