Reversing Light Switch Adjustment

[Jon S]

On my 1988 350i when I push the gearlever across the gate into reverse the reversing lights come on but when I put it in reverse and let go of the lever they go off. If I push the lever over to the left while in reverse they come on again. Can you adjust the switch on the gearbox?

Do you have to go through the gearlever gaiter to get access to the switch or can it be done from underneath?

Thanks in advance

Jon

[350zwelgje]

Yes you can adjust it, it is threaded and adjusting is to turn it. Adjusted mine half year ago, inside from the top. Not complex but it took a bit perseverance and three times the 15 minutes I anticipated.....

Rob

[adam quantrill]

They all do that, and if you fix it, your car will become non-standard ;^)

[Wedg1e]

It's better if you disconnect the wiring from the switch first, saves it getting tied up in a knot...

[350zwelgje]

I thought first it was the wiring, but after connecting it properly, no effect. So the 45 minutes were required to get it properly adjusted, and all this while I had to be on my way to the MOT with time to spare.... But some inspired driving (standard wedge mode) got me there on time and headed back with an MOT certificate after an hour or so. The sun was out and happy to know the reverse lights are functional (still need to put the light pods up by hand and pull the fuse since several years to be able to have the light tested during the MOT )

Rob

[ROOODBOY]

350zwelgje said:

I thought first it was the wiring, but after connecting it properly, no effect. So the 45 minutes were required to get it properly adjusted, and all this while I had to be on my way to the MOT with time to spare.... Rob

I once spent most of a day getting the reversing lights on a Mk2 Escort to work before an M.O.T.

When I got there I was horrified when they didn't work again, only to be told by the tester that reversing lamps aren't required for the test, even if the car has them!

[Campbell]

adam quantrill said:

They all do that, and if you fix it, your car will become non-standard ;^)

I dont have a switch on the gear stick, i have a pull out switch down by your left nee to put them on, funny at traffic lights

[Jon S]

Thanks for your replies, I ll have a go at adjusting it.

I was doing it for the MOT in a couple of months but nice to hear that it isn't part of the test. Must be how its been passing for the last few years!!

Cheers
Jon

[350zwelgje]

ROOODBOY said:

350zwelgje said:

I thought first it was the wiring, but after connecting it properly, no effect. So the 45 minutes were required to get it properly adjusted, and all this while I had to be on my way to the MOT with time to spare.... Rob

I once spent most of a day getting the reversing lights on a Mk2 Escort to work before an M.O.T.

When I got there I was horrified when they didn't work again, only to be told by the tester that reversing lamps aren't required for the test, even if the car has them!

You have all the nice TVRs and best parts supply in the UK and nice MOT rules to go along with it (only joking) , try the Netherlands and a lot is less difficult but if you have reversing lights they need to work (both! which was a small and quickly sorted hick-up during the MOT...). But all is ok and quickly forgotten, for all of us, when we get the MOT certificate and can drive any day we like, isn't it?

Rob