Technical Reverse lights and linkage 55 custom

So I'm having trouble figuring out how the reverse switch connects to the shifting gear. Someone had put a different engine and tranny in the car and looks like they removed one of the shift rods that makes contact with the reverse switch. Is there a way to fix this problem?

 

I take it this is a 55 Ford and it was a manual 3 speed and is now an automatic. What engine and transmission is in it now? On my 55 I installed a 302 and a C4 transmission and I used the switch that is on the side of the transmission. You could get an automatic column and it only has one arm and would work with the stock switch.

 

From what I'm gathering yes, it was a manual and I also have a 302 with a c4 I believe. I have not checked. Would that column be the whole steering assembly or just the end of it in the engine area

 

Don't use the column..use the shift arm on the tranny and look into Muncie back-up light switches.
Easy to fabricate a mount and wire rod to trigger the switch. Lots of different ones out there.

 

It would be the outer tube that goes from the steering wheel to the steering gear. At the bottom of the picture you posted there is a horizontal bolt with a nut on the end, it would go from that clamp to the steering wheel and would be from an automatic trans 55 Ford.

 

This is from the 55 Ford expert here on our forum. He is working with a stick shift column but you get the idea what is being removed. His restoration documentation of his 55 is legendary, you would do well to look it up for hints and tips! https://www.hotrodreverend.com/post/2017/09/21/55-ford-fairlane-restoration-blog-part-11

 

First step is to look on the side of the transmission and see if it has the Neutral safety/backup light switch on the side of the transmission. As Nosford said, many of the C-4 transmissions had the switch on the side of the trans or it is real easy to install one in most cases and that solves the neutral safety and backup light situations without a hassle. This image is upside down as apposed to how it mounts on the transmission.

 

Thank you all for the help. I will look into that this week. I'm new to these cars and just trying my best to restore it.

 

Would this be where that part you mentioned hooks up to

 

Yes, that is where the switch mr48chevy would install at. You definitely have a Ford C4 transmission from that picture. The switch will have 4 wires, two are for backup lights and two are for the neutral start switch.