Volkswagen: Electrical, fuse box, vw beetle

Question
I'am not sure if you recieved this message or not. I bought a 1972 VW Beetle. Fixer upper. All proublems on the passenger side tail light. And left back up light. I found a fuse in the engine compartment blown. It has a red fuse in it. I don;t know if this is the right size. Replaced it. Now everytime I put the car in reverse it blows the number seven fuse in the fuse box. This fuse also controls the ignition. Thats why I;am thinking the fuse in the engine compartment is the wrong size. Checking it out further I removed the tail light lens. Took out the screws that hold the light assy in. Tail light assy is now just hanging there. Turned the ignition on put the car in reverse. Turn signal,brake and back up light all light up. Driver side ok. Can you help. Also how is the best way to check for a short in one wire when theres so many together. Thanks going crazy

Answer
Tim,

Your problem is easy to fix.   The fuse for the reverse lights is most likely on the wrong terminal of your ignition coil.

When you put into reverse, you are grounding out the system, so it probably almost stalls the car too.

The black reverse light wire (in the engine compartment & has a fuse attached to it) should be connected to the + (positive) side of your ignition coil. It should not be on the same terminal as the green wire that goes to the condensor on the distributor.

Let me know how you make out!

Ron