300E console/reverse light cable - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

865sp300e · #1 01-26-2009, 03:50 PM

I have a '86 300E with manual transmission. The reverse lights do not work due to a faulty cable between the switch at the base of the shifter and the transmission. I am attempting to replace the cable, however, its becoming more work than what I expected to accomplish.

I removed most of the console to access the cable (see photo). The cable appears to be bundled to a group of other wires as it enters the transmission tunnel. The next step would be remove the console completely to access the cable. Before I remove any further components I am checking here for any advice.

Another issue is I discovered a cut wire which would connect to the cigarette lighter. The lighter works but I cannot explain the cut wire or what it does.

Also while I am at it I have a new parking brake cable. Although its been awhile since I researched, I think the console needs to be removed to replace it.

hanno · #2 01-26-2009, 09:56 PM

If you are looking for where the cable goes to the transmission don't spend a lot of time as it doesn't do that. I can track where it goes for you on a 5 spd parts car if you need that, but not until the weekend (its not stored here). let me know, console is already out of it.

Unsure about the lighter wire, but on a 190D the lighter 12V (ignition controlled) continues on to feed the glove box light.

865sp300e · #3 01-27-2009, 07:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hanno

If you are looking for where the cable goes to the transmission don't spend a lot of time as it doesn't do that. I can track where it goes for you on a 5 spd parts car if you need that, but not until the weekend (its not stored here). let me know, console is already out of it.

Unsure about the lighter wire, but on a 190D the lighter 12V (ignition controlled) continues on to feed the glove box light.

Thanks Hanno, I most likely will not have time until this weekend to pick where I left off. If you can track the cable, I'll be looking forward to your response.

babymog · #4 01-26-2009, 10:02 PM

It wraps around by your feet, goes down the driver's side of the center tunnel, inside the console, pops through the tunnel beside the driver's seat IIRC.

babymog · #5 01-27-2009, 09:16 AM

Sorry, I was talking about the parking brake forward cable.

865sp300e · #6 01-27-2009, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by babymog

Sorry, I was talking about the parking brake forward cable.

Thats fine, I will concentrate on the parking brake cable and do the reverse lamp cable later.

865sp300e · #7 01-31-2009, 09:42 AM

I'm good with the front parking brake cable but still need advice on where the large plug end of the cable for the backup lights connects under the console.

hanno · #8 01-31-2009, 12:39 PM

OK, took a look....small 2 pole connector at the backup light switch, cable routes forward and is tied to others on upper left side of console, comes out of console forward left side, larger plug socket is above your right foot. After removing enough "stuff", its at the end of a line going forward and slightly down from the ignition switch. I'm unsure if the connector is visible when the console is in the car. Its mounted on the side of the heater assy. Enjoy!

865sp300e · #9 01-31-2009, 05:39 PM

Thanks Hanno, with your help I found the connector under the dash and replaced the cable. I hope it was not too much trouble for you to check this out for me.

Your support is deeply appreciated.