no tail light in Reverse on my 3.5

[werminghausen]

Didn't pass inspection today- bummer.
Reverse light doesn't work.
I checked the bulbs, they seem to be ok...so the problem is further upstream.
Where is the switch for the Reverse light located?
Does anyone know how to tackle this problem.

[JimFreeh]

First, verify fuse is good. Best to swap it with a known good fuse. A fuse can fail to pass current and still "look" good.

Then, check starter neutral switch, it's mounted on the side of the tranmission, left (driver's) side.

Jim

[werminghausen]

Originally Posted by JimFreeh

First, verify fuse is good. Best to swap it with a known good fuse. A fuse can fail to pass current and still "look" good.

Then, check starter neutral switch, it's mounted on the side of the tranmission, left (driver's) side.

Jim

Thanks Jim... how can I identify and 'check' this switch on the left side?
Do you have any manual?

[JimFreeh]

It's fastened to the transimission case where the selector lever enters the case.

Jack up the car, then crawl under, look on the left side of the transmission, then follow the shift linkage.

Pull the plug and check for power and continuity.

The switch controls the reverse lights and the starter interlock; i.e. only allows current when trans is in neutral or park.

If you have a manual, the reverse switch is a plunger on the linkage.

Generally, if the switch is maladjusted, you'll also have a problem starting the car in P or N. So, first verify power, then continuity, then suspect the switch.

Jim

[werminghausen]

Originally Posted by JimFreeh

It's fastened to the transimission case where the selector lever enters the case.

Jack up the car, then crawl under, look on the left side of the transmission, then follow the shift linkage.

Pull the plug and check for power and continuity.

The switch controls the reverse lights and the starter interlock; i.e. only allows current when trans is in neutral or park.

If you have a manual, the reverse switch is a plunger on the linkage.

Generally, if the switch is maladjusted, you'll also have a problem starting the car in P or N. So, first verify power, then continuity, then suspect the switch.

Jim

Jim,
The switch seems to have 4 pins (1-4) I can see it in a picture. Which pin controls the back-up light?

[Tomguy]

I responded via PM since I check those first, but here's an article I wrote up when my backup lights didn't light on known good bulbs:
http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W108NeutralSafetySwitch

Mine just needed a good cleaning.

[meltedpanda]

had the same deal on my 450, contacts get cruddy , things loosen, clean it up and you should be good to go. Have someone look at the lights while you play around with shifer, most likely with some playing around with the shifter posistion you will get them to light