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Reverse Lights - Where Do I Start?

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by JustJeff, Sep 22, 2022.

  1. JustJeff

    JustJeff New Member

    I've got a CJ5 with a t19 in it. The reverse lights haven't worked since I got it, and I wouldn't be surprised if they haven't worked since the new transmission was put in 25 years ago. I'm not sure where the reverse switch is located on a t19, or how to tie that into the reverse lights. Anybody have any great answers?
     
  2. boopiejones

    boopiejones I can’t drive 55

    It’s possible the transmission doesn’t have a switch for a reverse light. I mounted a switch with a very simple bracket (bent piece of metal with a hole drilled for the switch) and a hose clamp.

    Switch: https://a.co/d/6P83eIl
    53784E90-69F0-4746-A8CD-0E3AD5D7198C.jpeg
     
  3. FinoCJ

    FinoCJ 1970 CJ5 Staff Member

    Not sure if the T19 case is exactly similar to the T18, but guessing its close. I think it was around 1970 when reverse lights were made mandatory - I think most T18/19s are from after that time and should have the switch....the reverse light switch on my T18 is on the end of the shift rail:
    [​IMG]

    The wiring is basically from a +12V source to one terminal on the switch. A wire goes from the second terminal to the lights - which usually are self grounding through the light housing and mount screws to the body etc. A fuse in the circuit is also a good ideal.
     
    Ol Fogie and melvinm like this.
  4. JustJeff

    JustJeff New Member

    This is just what I was looking for, thanks!!

    @FinoCJ - I'm not sure that mine has that switch. I'll look tonight when I get home and if I don't then I'll go for @boopiejones suggestion!
     
  5. Fireball

    Fireball Well-Known Member 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    dnb71R2, melvinm and FinoCJ like this.
  6. Charles N. Clifford

    Charles N. Clifford New Member

    My switch and trany look a bit different on my 74.
     
  7. Jw60

    Jw60 That guy 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Is that a 3 speed with reverse top left?
     
  8. billm006

    billm006 Member

    I had a T19 and the connector was exactly where Fireballs was. With the correct connector it was plug and play.
     
  9. Charles N. Clifford

    Charles N. Clifford New Member

    Yup, I think it's a T318 ?
     
  10. nickmil

    nickmil In mothballs.

    T-14 3 speed.
     
  11. danielbuck

    danielbuck Uncle Buck

    I just use a floor switch, and hit the switch when I want the reverse lights on. Handy if you're in a parking lot waiting to reverse out, you don't have to hold the jeep in reverse to keep the lights on.

    I put an indicator light on the dash too, so I don't forget to turn them off.
     
    Jw60 likes this.
  12. Oldpappy

    Oldpappy A.C. Fults - Curmudgeon at large 2022 Sponsor

    Yeah, it is important to not forget to turn them off. I had an old 56 Chevy in high school on which I had rigged a back up light to a toggle switch on the dash. I didn't include an indicator light and I sure pissed a lot of people off. Though it did come in handy when some bozo was riding my bumper with high beams on.

    None of my Jeeps are young enough to have a factory backup light, but such is sure a handy thing.

    I like the idea of a floor switch and think it would be even better to use a big push button switch that disconnects when you take your foot off so it would be self cancelling.
     
  13. Charles N. Clifford

    Charles N. Clifford New Member

    Oh yeah, Thanks nickmil.