1963 Convertible - No Backup Lights

[Karl Schwarz]

The backup lights worked on my '63 Series 62 convertible when I bought it in July, but have stopped working. All other lights work fine. There is no power coming to the connectors behind the license plate and the fuse is good. Any thoughts? I'm thinking it must be the connection at the neutral safety switch (NSS)? Any ideas before I start taking things apart?

[0hsy7we8jmzty]

The NSS is adjustable.  Before attempting to adjust it, make certain that the car will crank/start in Park and Neutral only (and not in any other range).  Check to make certain that the parking brake releases in in forward and reverse ranges (and not in park or neutral), and that the reverse lamps illuminate in R only, and not in any other range. There are two wire connections at the NSS for the reverse lamps; check to make certain they are tight and clean.  Things get pretty dirty down there.

[3ft7bqmb7dryo]

The smaller wires are the back up light wires. Make sure that there is power at one wire before making and adjustments.

Sometimes the slider pin gets broken, and the switch will not work.  I have new sliders for 25.00 if needed. Sometimes the NSS gets broken and the switch will not work.  I find it best to remove the NSS and inspect it before continuing with any adjustments. They tend to not just get loose and move.  Look for a broken bottom on the NSS or a broken slider pin.