Backup light switch, I've replaced and still no lights any help would be appreciated

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GARY l

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1987
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I've replaced backup light switch and still no lights any help would be appreciated
 

Ricko1966

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It's really easy. Just follow the circuit. You get power from the positive terminal of the ignition coil,it goes to the backup light switch, through the backup light switch it goes to the reverse light which is grounded to the body. I'm assuming you're working on a 1970 VW bug with a manual transmission.
 

justhorns

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I think he's working on an 87 with a 350... and... Either the switch is bad, not being actuated by the steering column, or no power at switch.. Then, check the bulbs in the rear tail lights, see if you get 12V when in reverse. Careful with a running engine and truck in reverse.. Check to see if the tab in the steering column is moving the switch first.. Thats the only tricky part.
 

Ricko1966

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^^^ assuming it's an automatic. Not a manual. It probably is automatic. I'm just through trying to guess what people are working on.
 

TotalyHucked

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As stated above, what are you working on specifically? Cuz a manual and auto have completely different setups. I'd assume an auto. First to check is always the bulbs, then grounds, then with the switch on (truck not running), play with the shifter to see if you can get the lights to come on. You likely just need to adjust the switch on the column a bit. When my truck was auto, I had to push the shift lever up to the top of reverse to get the lights to come on.
 

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