Author Topic: Reverse lights starter lockout column shift  (Read 2306 times)

bracurrie

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  • The SL to have is a 113, but I don't have one.
Reverse lights starter lockout column shift
« on: May 18, 2020, 23:21:58 »
Because of the M130 crossover between SLs, sedans and two doors I have noticed that this forum has people with knowledge relating to sedans.  My problem is the information needed to be able to troubleshoot and adjust reverse light trigger, starter lockout and 3rd/4th gear sensing switch.
Thanks ahead.
Brad
1970 280 SE W108.018
M130.980 w/ US emissions
manual column shift

ja17

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Re: Reverse lights starter lockout column shift
« Reply #1 on: May 19, 2020, 05:52:29 »
After 1969, the sedans used a different transmission than the W113 cars. The neutral safety switch including the reverse lightswitching, is located on the transmission itself, at the linkage pivot on the left side. If it is out of adjustment, make sure the shifter bushings on the linkage rod are good. Typically the adjustment can be made by shortening or lengthening the shift rod itself at the turn-buckle on the linkage. Please relate that your transmission is the later "four bolt" style oil pan. W113 cars all used the earlier 16 bolt oil pan transmissions. Also, is your car column or floor shift automatic?
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
1969 Dark Olive 280SL
2002 ML55 AMG (tow vehicle)
2002 SLK32 AMG (350 hp)
1982 300TD Wagon turbo 4spd.
1963 404 Mercedes Unimog (Swedish Army)
1989 flu419 Mercedes Unimog (US Army)
1998 E430
1974 450SLC Rally
1965 220SE Finback

Aaron h

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Re: Reverse lights starter lockout column shift
« Reply #2 on: May 19, 2020, 08:48:17 »
Joe, Brad has a column shift 4 speed manual. 

Your starter lockout switch is a spring type push button switch mounted above the clutch pedal.  The reverse light switch is either integral to the shift linkage at the bottom of the steering column (in the engine bay) or is mounted on the transmission.  You have the later side shift transmission, so it's probably part of the linkage.  The 3/4 sensing switch is part of the ignition advance cancellation emission stuff that you were battling with.  You can probably disable that in a very stealth way. 

Please check your emails, Brad.  I've responded to 3 of them but have had no replies from you. 

bracurrie

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  • The SL to have is a 113, but I don't have one.
Re: Reverse lights starter lockout column shift
« Reply #3 on: May 20, 2020, 04:52:50 »
Your starter lockout switch is a spring type push button switch mounted above the clutch pedal.  The reverse light switch is either integral to the shift linkage at the bottom of the steering column (in the engine bay) or is mounted on the transmission. 
Thank you for the reply.
The starter quit cranking the other day and when I put the shifter into the reverse gate it resumed cranking.
1970 280 SE W108.018
M130.980 w/ US emissions
manual column shift

ja17

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Re: Reverse lights starter lockout column shift
« Reply #4 on: May 20, 2020, 17:15:33 »
Thanks Aaron, I am not familiar with any W108 with a starter lock out switch (push button) above the clutch pedal. Of coarse, column shift standard transmission cars are rare in the US. I just figured it was an automatic.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
1969 Dark Olive 280SL
2002 ML55 AMG (tow vehicle)
2002 SLK32 AMG (350 hp)
1982 300TD Wagon turbo 4spd.
1963 404 Mercedes Unimog (Swedish Army)
1989 flu419 Mercedes Unimog (US Army)
1998 E430
1974 450SLC Rally
1965 220SE Finback