MGB Adjusting the reverse lamp switch...

[Joe Reed]

One more thing that annoys me on my car is that the reverse switch is either not tight, or needs a shim removed. If I hold the shift lever to the left, the lamps come on...but go off as soon as I release the lever. They've always been like that since I've owned the car, but I've ignored it.

I want to fix this without removing the transmission. Is it doable by lowering the rear of the trans? Should I disconnect the prop shaft first?

 

[Grantura_MKI]

I would suspect that the fiber washer is crushed. Be carful not the damage the switch on removal.

 

[Joe Reed]

I was thinking the opposite might be the issue....either too many washers, or a loose switch. I would seem that a switch not engaging would mean that it's not screwed in far enough. If a shim was crushed (or missing) the switch would be screwed in too far. I suppose I could test that theory on the overdrive trans I have in the shed before I try to fix it on the car...

 

[Grantura_MKI]

By saying crushed, I mean distorted, damaged or missing....this will led to the switch unwinding. Have never seen a switch without the fibre washer.