back up lights?

[BlackBird58]

During a break in the rain on Saturday, I replaced the bulbs in the back-up lights on my '58 HT in hopes of getting them operating. Unfortunately, bulbs don't seem to be the answer. Looking in the shop manual, I see that the back-up lights are part of the automatic transmission lockout switch. My car has the classic loose shifter, so that reverse engages when the shifter indicates "N". Is it possible that this is why the backup lights don't work? If I need to replace the switch itself, does anyone know the part number or who carries it?

Thanks, and Happy New Year!
Mel

[Alexander]

RE: back up lights?

The switch for the back-up lights is on the column under the dash. There is also a neutral safety switch that only allows starting in park and neutral. Both don't function right if the shift is worn and loose.

You need both the shift collar and the shift handle. Try Bob's House or Pat Wilson. They are on our links page on the main part of the website.

Alexander
1959 Hardtop
1960 Golde Top

[BlackBird58]

RE: back up lights?

Thanks Alex. I've got a collar and handle already; on my to-do list when it stops raining. Oh, that and fixing the windshield wipers!

Take care,
Mel

[Guest]

RE: back up lights?

these lites only work when the headlites are on.turn on key ,turn on lites.that should do.steve58ht

[BlackBird58]

RE: back up lights?

Well, you guys are both right. Last night, with the headlights on and holding the shift handle in the "R" position, I could see the backup lights working. So, my next task is the infamous shift collar fix.

Thanks again!
Mel

[Guest]

RE: back up lights?

yea.i have the parts,just waiting for the powder coat on the collar.steve58ht