back up switch power source

[fast fredy]

On my 55 wagon where does the power to the switch come from thanks Fred

[54vicky]

it would help if you state stick or auto as kreskin is on xmas leave

[dmsfrr]

On a '55 the original power source was on the headlight switch. The backup lights only worked when the parking or headlights & tail-lights were on.

In about '58 or maybe '59(?) Ford made a safety improvement and the power source wire was moved to the Accessory terminal of the ignition switch, so the backup lights could work anytime the car was on. Safer for pedestrians and in parking lots, etc.
.

[Gene F]

I have a 57, and my backup lights quit working. The neutral safety / back-up switch was new. The dash lights were dimming, and I tried to take it out and clean up that coil that regulates the dash light brigtness. One day I was getting an order together from Concourse, and decided on a new headlight switch. Now I have backup lights again. I guess there is a circuit breaker inside the headlight switch...

[dmsfrr]

Originally Posted by Gene F

I have a 57, and my backup lights quit working. The neutral safety / back-up switch was new. The dash lights were dimming, and I tried to take it out and clean up that coil that regulates the dash light brigtness. One day I was getting an order together from Concourse, and decided on a new headlight switch. Now I have backup lights again. I guess there is a circuit breaker inside the headlight switch...

Yes, there are two or three self-resetting thermal circuit breakers built in to the headlight switch. Part of the reason it doesn't need fuses for those lighting circuits.

[Gene F]

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Originally Posted by dmsfrr

Yes, there are two or three self-resetting thermal circuit breakers built in to the headlight switch. Part of the reason it doesn't need fuses for those lighting circuits.

I tore it apart after replacement, and didn't find anything... I'm the curious type.

[dmsfrr]

Originally Posted by Gene F

I tore it apart after replacement, and didn't find anything... I'm the curious type.

I've never opened one up to see what they look like but I suspect they are bi-metalic strips and may just look like connector strips from the "B" / Battery terminal.

This photo is from the '55 wiring diagram I've been using.