Brake switch failure

[cjannelli]

Just lost Brake lights w/ my 87 Carrera. I've checked the fuse/fuse contacts cleaned.
No other electrical problem. I'm going to install new switches.
Why are there 2 of them?
Chris

[Oh Haha]

Originally Posted by cjannelli

Why are there 2 of them?
Chris

Redundancy.

If you have a helper push down on the brake pedal and hold it whilst you change the switches you can avoid letting air into the system.

[cjannelli]

OK, makes sense. Thank you for the advice regarding depressing the brake pedal. I was wondering if that would work.
Best Regards,
Chris

[Chuck.H]

These switches are not very good even when new; many (including me) have replaced them with mechanical switches that will come on when the brake pedal moves 1/4", regardless of brake pressure. This way in stop and go driving when you just lightly press the brakes your lights will still come on.

HTH,
Chuck.H
'89 TurboLookTarga, 338k miles

[cjannelli]

Can you give me some details on the mechanical switch? Source, Where does it install?
Thanks!
Chris

[Chuck.H]

Some install it on the pedal cluster, I put mine on the brake 'bell crank'. Not very elegant but I don't store stuff in my trunk so it works. a better bracket would give it more protection but this gives the idea. I just extended the regular wires by 8" or so, I belive it's a normally open NO switch...



Chuck.H
'89 TurboLookTarga, 338k miles

[Jesse16]

I've replaced them once on my 87, they've been fine for 4 years now. I do like the mechanical switch option. Relatively simple option in the future maybe.
I just unscrewed the old and put in the new, no pedal pushing and very little leak. (put a paper towel under when you do it). My pedal was fine afterward. Only pain I had was the connectors. My new switches had the wide spaced spades so I cut off the plugs and put on separate female pcs. Guessing 2 switches for redundancy ?? I never checked if they're in series or parallel.