The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 1954 3800 back-up lights

On my 54 1 ton truck I have a manual four speed transmission on the floor. Is there by chance a plug or cover plate on the top of the transmission for a backup light switch? I am not sure what year they may have gone to such a switch on the transmission.

I could really use some backup lights, but without a switch on the transmission. I really don't want to place a toggle switch up on the dash for lights, but it may be the only option I have.

John

There was a reverse-light switch made for the SM420, but it's a rarity. Read through this thread and check out the photo links posted by gmc248.

Hedgehog,

I have tried doing thread searching on topics, but never find what I am looking for. I must be doing somthing wrong in my searches.

Anyhow I found it! from your reply leading me to that thread. I remember seeing them now, not really knowing what they were used for at the time. I thought they were used for.....NEVER MIND!, I'll really show my stupidity.

Like the article said they were short lived, because of how they were mounted. That was then and now with some of the neat switches such as roller limit type switches mounted in aluminum housings, that we have today, one might just be able to get one to last longer along with a nice sturdy package.

One other thought, I saw or found a time delay toggle switch. I don't know what the time duration would be or it may might be able to be set, but that would be a good idea. I really don't want to mount a regular on/off toggle switch on the dash for the fear of forgetting to shut it back off. A momentary "on" switch would work too, but with armstrong steering like I have on mine, that may just require another hand to operate, LOL!

I'll see what other people say about this, but at least I know what could be done if I wanted to.

Thanks, Hedgehog

John

I've been thinking a reed switch and a magnet could be set up to operate a relay to run the backup lights. I've seen the pictures of the switch, and think there is probably a way to use similar mounts.

If I ever do it, I'll post pictures....

Here's a thought. Get a shifter mounted switch for an electric 2 speed rear end, Then you can have backup lights and one heck of a conversation piece for the unknowing.

I put a pair of 1947 - 1953 Chevy pickup parking lights in the back of my truck with a toggle switch to turn 'em on and off ... a lighted switch is the way to go, so you know they're on.

You can see a pic at this thread: Click Here