Hi my reverse lights aren’t working after changing a leaky neutral safety switch. I replaced with STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS Part # NS11, which looks the same as the one I took out.

After reading the service manual and reviewing the posts on SL6 I determined the switch is working fine. I used the paper clip test and attached the wiring socket to the new switch out of the car and the lights light. But when I screw the switch in all the way the reserves lights don’t work. If I screw in about ¾ of the way they work but any further and no lights.

I know the center contact on the switch operates the lights only when depressed so it’s as if the switch is too long. I adjusted the linkage correctly but I am also seeing in the posts something about the rooster comb, can this be adjusted so the lights light if I drop the pan? I also read some posts that some newer switches may not operate the lights, is that true? The neutral start part of the switch works fine, it only starts in N or P.

Any advice would be appreciated.

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Thanks

Bruce
'73 Ply Scamp 225 1bbl

The center contact is grounded, in neutral and park for the neutral safety function. The two end contacts are connected together in reverse to turn on the lights.

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Charrlie_S
65 Valiant 100 2dr post 170 turbo
66 Valiant Signet 170 nitrous
64 Valiant Signet
64 Valiant 4dr 170
64 Valiant 4dr 225

Thanks when I referred to the center contact I meant on the end of the switch that goes into the trans, not the pin on the outside.

I still wonder if the rooster comb can be adjusted to allow reverse lights to work and if it's true there are switches that won't work the reserves lights.

Thanks

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Thanks

Bruce
'73 Ply Scamp 225 1bbl

No adjustment there. However the linkage between shifter, and transmission could be off just enough so transmission shifts ok, but positions rooster off in one direction just enough so switch is not full engaged.

One way to test this theory would be to disconnect linkage at transmission, and rotate at transmission shift lever by hand to R and see if backup lights burn. Another thought is that switch may or may not be fully seated or threaded into transmission case correctly.

Did you test switch for continuity before installing, wouldn't be the first time a new part was defective.

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67' Dart GT Convertible; the old Chrysler Corp.
82' LeBaron Convertible; the new Chrysler Corp
07' 300 C AWD; Now by Fiat, the old new Chrysler LLC

Thanks I'll try removing the linkage and moving by hand.

As for switch not be seated I think it's in all the way, no leaks around it and I torqued to specs.

I did check the switch before installing, I learned that early on, the hard way.

_________________
Thanks

Bruce
'73 Ply Scamp 225 1bbl

Thanks everyone for your comments and suggestions. I have figured out why the reverse lights did not work.

Apparently there are some Neutral Safety Switches that are for the A-904 transmission that are slightly larger. Larger by a thread so the switch goes a little deeper into the transmission, the plastic plunger is a little higher and the metal point a little bigger. Not obvious unless you compare side by side. I have a picture but can't load up to this site.

The ACDelco C2202 is the bigger one and did not work, the Standard NS11 and the Airtex/Wells 9A6 both work.

_________________
Thanks

Bruce
'73 Ply Scamp 225 1bbl