Field Tech Tip (FIELD TIP 001)

Posted By:

• KEVIN BEHAN
• SPORTS & COLLECTOR CAR CENTER

Procedure

Here is a simple "No Crank" fix for those Jaguars that have a "U" shaped shift quadrant. You may find that one, or both, of the two micro switches on the right side of the console shift selector mechanism have failed. More specifically, the operation arms tend to fall off of the switches, and the selector lever will no longer engage them properly. Jaguar will sell you the entire selector assembly for a small fortune. Or you can head over to Radio Shack with less than $5, and buy (2) 275-0016 SPDT Submini Lever Switches. You will also need (4) 4-40 x 1/2 inch long screws. Remove the plastic trim cover from the shifter and the shift knob, unscrew the 4 shift quadrant screws, and lift out the wood console panel, exposing the shifter mechanism. Remove the old micro switches from the bracket by carefully drilling off the soft rivet heads. Cut the wires as close to the old switches as you can. You will need all the length. Drill the 4 existing holes large enough for the 4-40 screws to fit through them. Tap the switch bodies with a 4-40 tap. Bend the solder lugs at an angle to clear the bracket once installed. Solder the wires onto the switch terminals. IMPORTANT! The "neutral" switch should be wired normally "open", and the "park" switch needs to be normally "closed". (when depressed, neutral will pass current, and park will not.) On my switches, the neutral was soldered at the rear and center lugs. The park was soldered at the front and rear lugs. You must also cut the "neutral" switch operating lever appx. in half, prior to installing, or the vehicle will start in "reverse". A good tin snip works well. These switches are a bit deeper than the old ones. So, add some tape, or other to prevent accidental shorting of the switch lugs against the bracket. Install the switches using the 4-40 screws, re-fit the rotary cover, and test your work!