Lost Backup Lights

[Archive]

Tonight I lost my backup lights, immediately obvious, because the back up alarm quit too. This is on a new 6 speed truck. A few times, I have noticed a reluctance in the alarm to sound off. It almost seemed as if the switch was only making marginal contact.

I don't have a service manual yet. Questions,could somebody tell me how the circuit works? Is there an adjustment on the backup light switch? Yes, I already checked the fuse.

Thanks,

Shelby

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2001 2500 QC LB 4WD, ETH, DEE, 3. 54 gears, Laramie SLT, Camper Special, Trailer Tow, Travel Convenience Group, Power Driver Seat, Alarm System, Remote Keyless Entry, Fog Lamps, Cab Clearance Lamps, HD Transfer Case, Bright White with a Gray Interior. Built 09-15-00, took delivery on 10-06-00, 1749 miles as of 11-25-00. Custom aluminum work body / flat bed.
Coming soon: E-Brake and gauges.

[This message has been edited by Surveyor Shelby (edited 12-01-2000). ]

 

[Archive]

If it's anything like the NV4500, the switch is a screw in sensor that is activated via what looks like a big ball bearing that gets clicked in when in reverse. It's on the driver's side of the transmission towards the tail housing. There is a harness that plugs into it. It could have been poorly installed or have a bad contact.

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Chris Timochko
1997 5sp 4X4, HX40, BD 4" Brake, Marine Compression, Custom Tuned Injection Pump, 370B Injection Nozzles, Delivery Valves, Governor & AFC Spring Kit, Psychotty Air, Water Injection, NOS Diesel Kit, 6" Chrome Exhaust System, No Smoke Valet Switch, McLeod Dual Disc Clutch, Mag-Hytec Rear Cover, Cummins Chrome Kit, Optima Red Tops, Hadley Bully Horns, Hurst Line Loc, Goodyear Wrangler AT/S 305/70/16s. Test mule for Auto Wurks Diesel race program

 

[Archive]

You have a backup alarm? Is this an OEM item?Sounds like another gadget I can add to my truck.

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2001 HO 6spd,Quad cab,LWB,4x4,Flame Red,all options except for leather,Westin Brushguard/Push bar,Painless wiring,Radio Shack CB( so what it works},my own designed CB mount,Smittybuilt nerf bars,NW Custom rocker covers,Custom built stainless rocker light bars(more to come)

 

[Archive]

Mike,

Yep I have a backup alarm. No, it is not OEM. My son is embarrassed by it and was happy when it quit. I added for a safety feature since I am using my truck in my business, anything to reduce liability in today's sue happy environment. With the flatbed on mine, it just plain made sense too, don't quite have as good of visibility to the rear. Not that it is that good anyway, when someone pulls up on your bumper. Little rice burners disappear out of sight when they get too close. Be happy to show you the "beast" the next time I am in Corvallis.

Shelby

[This message has been edited by Surveyor Shelby (edited 12-04-2000). ]

 

[Archive]

Hey Shelby,

The backup lamps are just like any other vehicle. There is a switch on the adapter housing of the transmission. One side will be +12V in neutral and both sides should measure +12V in reverse (with the key in the run position of course) #ad
If it checks out OK you'll need the connector pin-outs, let me know.

Mick
<font color=blue>

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2001. 5 2500 ETH/DEE, QuadCab, 4X4, SB, LSD, 3. 54, SLT+, Sport, Intense Blue PC/Agate, Tow Package, Camper Package, 'DC' Bed Cover, Sliding rear window. Totally STOCK!!
On Order 4/28/00
Arrived 9/14/00 !! #ad

My Truck

[This message has been edited by Mick2500 (edited 12-04-2000). ]

 

[Archive]

Mick,

I think it is the switch. I unhooked the plug at the transmission and connected the two leads together, essentially making a closed switch. All kinds of lights and backup alarm. This indicates to me that everything is good but the backup switch. Funny thing though is that a continuity test on the switch showed it to be closed in reverse. The only thing I can think of, is that I might have had the meter leads touching. Hard to get the probes on the switch in the transmission, especially lying on my back in the driveway. My guess is still the backup switch, since when I remove that from the circuit the lamps light continuously. In other words the circuit is complete and has power with the key on. I have an appointment at 09:30 in the morning at the dealer. I will post their findings.

Shelby

 

[Archive]

Update and comments on service to follow: I had an appointment at 09:30 this AM. I was a couple of minutes late getting there. I asked for the backup light circuit to be checked out and told them my 5 minute diagnosis indicated it was the switch. I also asked to have my headlight aim checked, as I thought it was off, new truck with under 2000 miles. At 12:30 PM I left. Headlights adjusted (they were too high) and an appointment for next Monday @ 08:00 to replace the backup light switch, which they did not have in stock.

Why does it take 3 hours to do about 30 minutes work (at the outside) when you have an appointment, especially that early in the day? I will update after the next visit. I should be out of there by 08:30 at the latest next Monday, shouldn't I?

Shelby