Reversing light on an SC

[Peter Roberts]

I was so pleased when i managed to get a key cut for the reverse lock on the gearshift because of the security it gives when parked.
Not so pleased when i used it for the first time and as i walked away and gave a the car the customary over the shoulder admiring look i noticed the reversing light was on.
Is it normal that it is not wired through the ignition system or has somebody done a mod on my car?

[POR68]

Only if the ignition is switched on Peter - at least on the BT6. On some earlier cars I think it was via the light switch also.

[Peter Roberts]

The SC is the last of the line so was surprised the light was on with the ignition off. What it means is that unless i alter it i cannot use the gearstick lock. In my case i have also incorporated a battery cut off switch under the bonnet so if i was leaving the car parked for a long time i would disconnect the battery but for quick stops it is a bit of a pain to do.

[POR68]

It depends where the wire for the reverse light switch is routed Peter. Does it go to continuous power or switched power? Perhaps someone has been naughty in the past.

[356Monkey]

My 64 c has the live feed to the reversing light switched via the ignition switch. I also have the gear shift lock on mine and it does't light up the reversing light when left locked. It's supposed to be powered via fuse No.2 which is made live via terminal No. 30 (red wire) on the back of the ignition switch. It would be worth seeing if someone has put it on a different circuit, try removing fure 2 and seeing if the reversing light stays on

[POR68]

Correct. The Reverse light switch is below as is a schematic of the ignition switch. The route to the reverse light switch should be as shown on your ignition switch. Red is power in. The wire to the reverse sight switch on the gearbox seemingly should have originated at one of the three yellow wire slots or the green/white instrument wire slot for 'switched power'.

[roy mawbey]

On the 356A the reverse light switch is on the inside of the central tunnel and is operated when the gearlever is pushed into reverse and this contacts the end of the domed switch cover making the circuit. It only alights though when the headlights are on and in reverse gear.

The later cars are so different.

Roy

[simon james]

On my BT6 S90 the reversing light is through the ignition.
Another consideration is that the gear lever lock works in reverse AND first, oh and don’t forget the hole in the Handbrake mechanism where you can use a padlock to good effect.

[louis356]

You said you got a key cut for your lock?

I have a lock and a blank key but haven't been able to find anyone to cut the key.

Did you do it yourself? I must admit I don't feel confident enough.

Greg

[Peter Roberts]

Gearstick lock
I got in touch with Porsche UK who provided me with the key number from the Kardex system. Porsche Cardiff had requested this info for me but Porsche told them to tell me to find a locksmith. I complained directly to them knowing they had the info on the Kardex but were probably disinclined to help but my complaint obviously did the trick. They have the info it is just a question of reminding them you know they have the info.
If the lock you have is not original then you have a problem. I tried locksmiths who just scratched their heads as it is a complicated bit of kit. I believe PRS can sort it but it takes a long time or can be expensive when they offer you an exchange unit from stock. Good luck.

[POR68]

Peter it is worth forking out a bit of cash for your own copy of the Kardex.

[Peter Roberts]

Not thought of that up until now but as you mention it i may consider it.
I have just spent a lot of time and money on the car doing a major restoration. Its nowhere near what some people spend who get the job done for them but i am lucky to have the time, equipment and the skills to do it. Its also part of my pension plan so spending more than the car is worth would not make sense. I have started collecting the correct tools for the tool kit and obtained an original jack etc so getting a copy of the Kardex does make sense as it is all added value.

[Kneeslider]

Not sure I should really mention this, but about a year ago, when Peter and I were discussing gearshift locks on another thread, I followed his example of contacting Porsche cars GB in order to obtain the gearshift lock code.

Imgaine my surprise, when the representative of PCGB not only found out the gearshift lock number for me FOC, but forwarded me a PDF file containing my Kardex! Perhaps this was an oversight on their part, but one that I am very gratefull for. See, who says that you don't get anything for free these days?

Now, don't all rush at once...