Brake switch failure
 

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

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.

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

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

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

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...

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1345728777.jpg

Chuck.H
'89 TurboLookTarga, 338k miles

Brake Switches
 

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.