Smoke under the dash today

[ochten]

I had to replace the 10 Amp brakefuse (and reverse lights) sometimes this year. I replaced the fuse today again and everywhere smoke under the dash! (I have lucky for me a master switch under the dash)
The green wire from the Gearbox T 5 switch to the loom under the dash is gone. I think I have to dig further under the dashboard to find the remains to the fuseboard.

Is this a well known problem with the Reverse switch? I do hope it is the switch!! Do brakeswitch (same fuse) seems to be OK

[TSS]

It is a well known problem with the reverse light switch at the base of the gear lever which is a rather poor design. It will be shorting when you put it into reverse and blowing the fuse. Mine used to do this all the time until I got the switch replaced and correctly adjusted.

[Cockey]

Bit unrelated, but my car turns its reversing light on when put into 5th. Suppose something to do with the switch design also.

Edited by Cockey on Tuesday 31st July 15:36

[Robertjp]

hmm...i will add to the reverse light faults, mine randomly flashes on and off, no idea what gear im in though

no smoke though....sounds like it was shorting somewhere...got any grommets missing or is the switch faulty?

[ochten]

I took the dashboard off to follow the burned green wire. It stopped in the middle of the main loom (I was quick with the master switch!)
The reverse light switch (Ford Mondeo Cosworth?) looks ok but the wire to the Main fuseboard is gone till the middle of the loom under the dashboard.

I think that something within the switch is making ground. Why the fuse is still OK is very strange and making me very unsecure . I will make a second - in line - 10A fuse to save the brakelights if it starts again!

TVR are stange cars but it seems to be happening in a Ford part. Unlucky me?

[nawarne]

Cockey said:

Bit unrelated, but my car turns its reversing light on when put into 5th. Suppose something to do with the switch design also.

Edited by Cockey on Tuesday 31st July 15:36

Cocky
- Just a thought, might be an indication of failed/failing engine mounts (allowing the engine to move/drop slightly).
Had this going up to Chatsworth last year and diycerb noticed the reverse light on when cruising on the motor way....Could also be that the 'striker' plate on the gearstick has gone out of adjustment.
On mine it was the N/S engine mount though!
Nick