Backup Lights?

[Jazzman]

Perhaps I have missed it, but does the Roadster kit with the Ron Francis wiring kit include a circuit for backup lights? Maybe I'm just missing it, but I don't find it the schematics. If it is not there, is a backup light required by law? (I always assumed so.) If it's not in the wiring harness set, how did you run your backup lights? How did you hook them into the transmission to sense when you put it in reverse? Thanks!

[Jeff Kleiner]

Not included in the RF harness. Required by law some places but not others so you'll need to check local regulations. It's a very simple circuit using the transmission's reverse switch which will have two terminals. You send fused keyed power in to one side of the switch and out the other side to a grounded lamp. The switch is open in all other gears and neutral---when you go to reverse it closes completing the circuit.

Jeff

[JIMOCO]

52743

In PA they are required. Since I am carbureted I did not need the fuel pump wire in the Ron Francis harness. I cut the wire at the transmission and connected to the switch. Then I ran the wire in with the harness for the license plate light and through the trunk lid. I installed two LEDs to a license plate frame I bought at Pep Boys. I was able to avoid cutting the body or making other modifications. I jumped the wires for the inertia switch at the fuse box and all worked well.

Jim

[AZPete]

In Arizona backup lights are not required. When I registered my roadster, and then my 818, the inspection did not include any lights, brakes, windshield, or muffler, so you can leave all those things off. They checked the engine number, so you should put an engine in. :D

[GoDadGo]

Great Idea!

[BEAR-AvHistory]

NC inspection is conducted by the NCDMV car theft bureau. Its a docs check & not a safety inspection. My car does not have wipers or back up lights.

Have heard for those that want one the Mini Cooper backup light assembly is a good fit for the roadster.