V8S Reverse light switch

[seb400]

Hi
Last Autumn I had my gearbox replaced and have only used the car intermittently (daylight) since. I now notice that the reversing lights no longer work. Does anyone have any advice on investigating? I'm hoping that it'll just be a case of an overlooked electrical connection, but if so, where might that be?


Steve

[GreenV8S]

I'd start by checking the fuse and bulbs.

[seb400]

Isn't the fuse shared with brake lights? They work okay. Will check bulbs, if fuse is okay seems unlikely that both could have gone together.

Steve

[GreenV8S]

Well it's either that, or the switch isn't adjusted correctly, or the wire has disconnected (and is flapping about and eventually going to short on something, taking the fuse out anyway. So check the basics first.

[tubbystu]

Check if the electrical connection on the rear near-side (for UK) of the gearbox is good .......?

[seb400]

Cheers for all suggestions.
Is the connection accessed from beneath the gearstick gaiter?

Steve

[F908 Tim]

Nope...underneath.

[nawarne]

I Have replaced the reverse light switch on my V8S.
Access is possible from the top through the gearstick aperture.

You do need to remove or tip up the centre console/transmission tunnel cover. Then release the leathercloth gaiter. A rubber shroud is under this fixed with self tappers to the glass fibre.
With this out of the way you can see the switch fixed to the side of the remote linkage housing.

The switch is a brass plunger operated by the linkage internals and may have gone/worn out of adjustment. To adjust, screw the switch body in with the lever in the 'reverse' position - - until it makes contact, then back it off 1/2 a turn, lock with the lock nut & job done!

DONT over adjust - else you will have to buy a new switch - as I did!!
Nick