No reversing lights

[2kwrx]

Hi There,

We have just bought a 1977 Mini Leyland which we are in the process of doing-up. I have today noticed that the reversing (backing) lights don't light up when in reverse. I have checked the bulbs and the wiring behind and everything looks fine, so I am now thinking that it could be the switch in the gearbox?

I have never done this sort of work before, so any advice on where to find this switch would be appreciated.

Thanks
Kev

[the wing commander]

It's located at the end of the rod change, just under the gear change. You may have a wire broken or melted, as it's located rather close to the exhaust in some cases! This is not a difficult job...but you do have to get under the car. Make sure it's on firm axle stands before going under there after you have jacked it up.

[minimaniac]

Did the '77 minis have reversing lights fitted originally? We have a 1979 Mini Special and this doesn't have reversing lights.

This one is a 1977 clubby

[dennisw1]

As said the switch is under the car at the bottom of the gearstick.

If you unplug the wires from it you can touch them together with the ignition on, the reverse lights should come on. If the wires on the switch arent obviously broken, you can try screwing it in further to see if this makes a difference (they're adjustable) if not then it'll need a new switch, they're not expensive.

[2kwrx]

Thanks guys for the detailed help, I will have a go today.
Kev