One or Two Brake Light Swiches???

[Skyhog]

As I posted earlier my brake lites went kaput. I was going to order a new switch, the web page here at Pelican Parts says two are required. I see only one mounted to the master cylinder. What am I missing? The car is a '82 SC.

Thanks

[pa911]

I think it should be two

[rnln]

there are 2. Becareful with the fluid. You should read this.
Brake Lights

[Skyhog]

Yup, I have two switches and the aft one looks like a SOB to reach. I'm going to try the relay mod. Thanks for the help.

Swen

[rnln]

I used a long socket, and not too big rachet head.

[DRACO A5OG]

Hey Swen,

Get a helper to press down on the brake pedal when you replace the BLS's so you will not introduce air into the system. I would also place new fluid into the new BLS before installing.

Jim

BTW where are yo located?

[myamoto1]

I'd also recommed getting Jim's (DRACO A5OG) BLSAS relay kit. Just installed mine today and hearing that relay click when I step on the brakes, gives me 2 levels of confidence: 1) I know my brake lights are on and 2) I know I won't have to replace my BLS any time soon. Easy install and great company/guy to deal with. Thanks again Jim!

[Dennis Kalma]

I'd add support for the BLSAS relay kit...fairly easy install....should never have to do it again.

Dennis

[emac]

Dont want to start anything here but you do not have to step on the brake pedal when you install the new switch. In my case and more then once, I had everything out of the way and ready. Removed old switch and replaced. Actually never had to bleed the brakes.

Just my 2c

[3.2 CAB]

If someone does more than just very minor pressure on the brake pedal, while the switch is removed, there will be brake fluid everywhere. You don't want someone that is just going to press on the pedal, thinking to do the same as they normally would for using the brakes. I have changed many master cylinder mounted, brake light switches over the years, on various makes and models, but I never had anyone press on the brake pedal while doing so.

If you really want to try to ensure the least amount of air entering the system during a switch change, you can pre-load the new switch with a couple of drops of fresh brake fluid with an eye dropper, or like instrument. Then remove old switch, and replace with the new switch. Be sure to wipe all of the dirt, grit-n-grime from around the fitting area, before removing the old switch, and wipe clean the fitting, before inserting the new switch into the threads. There may be a drop or two of brake fluid seep from the switch mounting hole, but it won't be a problem a paper towel or shop rag can't control. Good luck!! Tony.

[emac]

Tony

Ditto---when I removed mine the M/C weeped a few drops of fluid which in my opinion would not allow air in. After the install all I did was check and top off a little. I didn't get into the detail you did but you hit it on the head.

[gtc]

+1 Ernie, this isn't as hard as people are making it sound. I didn't bleed mine afterwards, and the brake feel was unchanged.

[emac]

Graham
Your right, as I remember it took me no longer then fifteen to twenty minutes to install both switches, and that included removing the duct work. In my opinion the biggest part is getting the proper tools ready a rag etc and finding some way to get you body in the proper position to lay in the trunk!

[rnln]

My last more less 4 months now. They usually last best only 2 months or so. I used to have to replace the switches several times a year, until I couldn't keep up with them any more. His last almost a year now if I remember correctly.

Originally Posted by myamoto1

I'd also recommed getting Jim's (DRACO A5OG) BLSAS relay kit. Just installed mine today and hearing that relay click when I step on the brakes, gives me 2 levels of confidence: 1) I know my brake lights are on and 2) I know I won't have to replace my BLS any time soon. Easy install and great company/guy to deal with. Thanks again Jim!