reverse switch pin actuator
 

I troubleshot my lack of backup lights to the switch at the tranny ('70, side shift)...pulled the wires and shorted them and the lights work. Pulled the switch to pop out the assumed worn pin but I can't get it out with needle nose and I'm too scared to really go for it. The Haynes manual just say to "remove" it. Any tricks involved to get the pin out?

Also, anyone know how the switch works, or how to bench test it? I couldn't fine any continuity between anything on the switch. Tried the switch from my '74 side shift and it acts the same (both bad?). I even tried simulating the actuator pin with a grounded (to 12V ref) drill bit and sticking it into the orfice with the switch wired in series with 12V...no go. Maybe I need a new switch too? Just wondering.
Ed

Pull harder. :)

Seriously it should come out with minimal persuasion. I used a pair of needle nose pliers like you and didn't have any problems.

The two terminals on the switch should be a short circuit (close to 0 ohms resistance) when you insert something into the hole in the switch and push in a few mm.

This shows what the pin should look like. Old worn pin is on the bottom, new pin on top. I did this repair just last month.

Jeff,
Thanks for the feedback. I'll pull harder. Did you have to replace the switch too, or just the pin?
Ed

When I rebuilt my transmission, the thing just fell out.

D'oh...Guess I shoulda checked the archives before posting a dumb question! Thanks to Mueller's post mentioning a return spring in the switch I proceeded to verify that both of my switches are good. I didn't press the drill bit hard enough to see the spring-action of the switch. I found that the switch from my '74 trips with just slight depression, as opposed to the one that was on the car which tripped at almost full stroke. Switched 'em and now have backup lights, so I guess I won't have to remove the pin yet...though maybe I'll do it just so it won't be worse after it wears again.
Thanks for the replies.
Ed

I just replaced the pin. I was surprised at how little wear was causing problems. My switch trips without too much movement either. If it needed to be in 3/4 of the way I don't think it would ever work.

PS - You can tell if your pin is worn by whether the end that sticks into the transmission is flat (worn) or rounded.