Neutral and reverse switches

[Canadian818]

I can’t seem to figure out how these switches work. They seem to be identical, a simple 2 wire plunger that I figured would either have continuity when depressed or extended. However I have 4 of them, and can’t get any of them to “activate”. I was going to use the neutral switch to prevent starting in gear, but I can use the clutch switch to accomplish the same thing. But the reverse switch is needed for the backup lights. Any help would be appreciated.

[Hobby Racer]

I had the same issue. Turned out the switches were bad. The wires break inside the insulation right were they enter the plunger as they get twisted and crushed when installing/removing. I just bought two new ones and now the neutral and reverse switches work correctly.

If you want to sacrifice one to test, you can cut the wires off close to the epoxy were they enter the switch. Then use you multi-meter to test for continuity when pressed and not pressed.

[Canadian818]

Thanks, I’ll pick up a new one and test it.

[Canadian818]

Picked up a new one today and it works perfectly, can’t believe all 4 of mine were bad. I was under the impression that the rearward one (both on d/s of t-case) was the reverse and the forward one was neutral. However they both appear to only have continuity when in reverse, so perhaps it’s a redundant system? Either way I can solve my not starting in gear issue with the clutch switch. Thanks again Hobby Racer!

[frankc5r]

Both of mine on my 5 spd were bad too.
Must be a crappy design. Need one for
backup lights. Probably order one.

[phil1734]

I've had three go bad, and my current reverse one is on the fritz. I'd highly discourage relying on one as part of your starting circuit.