Reverse Lights

[JHall6246]

I have a 1998 XLT and my reverse lights stopped working. I've checked and re-checked the fuses, relays, and bulbs. Does anyone know where the reverse switch is on the steering column. Pics would help. Thanks

 

[budwich]

The switches aren't in the column... they are on the transmission. I assume that you have "checked" with a meter looking for voltage.

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's located on the driver's side of the transmission. It's called the digital transmission range sensor, or switch (DTR). Do you still have reverse working?

 

[JHall6246]

Yeah I've checked with a meter and i'm getting voltage and reverse still works.

 

[JHall6246]

What exactly does the sensor look like so i can identify it right?

 

[budwich]

Hold it, you say you are getting voltage... where???? at the bulb??? if so, it ain't a switch problem. It's a ground problem.

 

[JHall6246]

From the fuse box

 

[budwich]

Thanks... I would follow the BK/PK wire back from the lights, there is at least four connector between the lights and the switch that might be a problem. Similarly, the P/O coming into the switch should show voltage coming from "that fuse".

 

[JHall6246]

Did what you said and everything is still the same. I replaced the sensor and installed Rancho RSX shocks on front and back. Now it won't crank. Can you think of anything I missed?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The sensor might be misaligned if it won't crank.

 

[JHall6246]

Already tried that. Tried twisting, turning but it still won't crank. With the old and new sensor. Also tested the battery and its not engaging the starter

 

[BrooklynBay]

Did you check the DTR circuit to see if it's enabling the starter solenoid while you have it in park or neutral? Did you try to manually jump the starter solenoid just to test it? Make sure that it's in park when doing so.

 

[JHall6246]

We know the starter is not engaging when turning the key. There is no voltage draw from the battery when the key is turned. Not sure how to test the DTR circuit.

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's similar to the neutral safety swith configuration on the older A4LD, except it has extra functions for the new electronic version which you have. AutoZone has wiring diagrams on their website which will tell you which color coded wire is for the starting circuit. Do you have a wiring diagram, manual, or CD? You could download a Ford CD from WWW.FordCDs.Com.

 

[JHall6246]

Found diagrams on both sites. I'll get back to you. Thanks for info.

 

[JHall6246]

The Ford CD site is a great help. I plan on fixing the problem in the morning. I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for your help.

 

[JHall6246]

Couldn't fix problem. Took it to dealer.