So last night I took my PNP switch off to replace it. I put the new one on and I have idea what I do from there. I mean I have instructions but I just don't really understand them. It says I plug it up after I get it installed but I thought the pnp switch is what told the car it was in reverse so therefor wouldn't it need to be plugged in first and then installed sense you have to have the back up lights to align it correctly? Also it says to find the backup lights and then rotate the switch until they go off and then find the center and tighten it down. So does that meant tighten it down with the backup still on or off cause it sounds like it says to rotate until OFF and then tighten it down. BUT if I tighten it down with them off and the car is still in reverse then that means I will have no Backlights right? I don't know I just Need help when it comes to the aligning part. PLEASE HELP because I am out of car right now. I didn't realize I was going to have this much trouble with it

 

The switch alignment is adjusted by loosening the hex screw, turning the switch, and tightening it down again.

Watch the back up lights and move your shifter slowly out of R, over the detents, in both directions. This will give you an idea of whether or not it is "centered" on R.

If it is, it's good enough. If not, turn the switch a little and try again.

 

So, what kind of car are we talking about here? Or does it matter?

 

I just took apart my busted PNP switch to see what I can do with it.

I now think the best test for "is it aligned" is "will it start in Neutral."

The contacts that permit starter operation in N are both furthest from the pivot and are the shortest. Therefore misalignment will affect starting in N more than any other aspect.

My switch failed due to lubrication failure which accelerated contact wear. Ingress of dirt is also a factor but I believe it to be much smaller. My switch may be repairable if the contacts are filed, and the repacked with grease and sealed properly.