Thread: I need a new brake light switch!!!

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Hey guys; I just built a new brake set up for my 65 Ranchero.
I built a set up like hotrod46's he got photo's on his page 5 of the thread,
I couldn't build it for $3 K either! Mine looks real close to that set up.
I would like a two wire hook up, with something I can mount so when
I take my foot off the brake it will press on the switch.
I don't like the origanal one that was on it. It was activated by the rod for the master cyclinder twisting up against the switch.
Anyone reccomend a new style switch and were to buy it from.
Thanks Kurt

I use the two wire switch that is pressure actuated and can be tee'd into the brake line anywhere.... Cleaner setup, and one less thing to mess with under the dash! I get mine at NAPA, super cheap deal, easy to install.

Originally Posted by Dave Severson

I use the two wire switch that is pressure actuated and can be tee'd into the brake line anywhere.... Cleaner setup, and one less thing to mess with under the dash! I get mine at NAPA, super cheap deal, easy to install.

While doing my search prior to installing one of these switches I found this thread . The way my plumbing is laid out it will be easiest for me to put the switch right after my MC and before the residual valve . It will be on the front brake side of MC . Will this work OK ?

Originally Posted by luckyfasteddie

While doing my search prior to installing one of these switches I found this thread . The way my plumbing is laid out it will be easiest for me to put the switch right after my MC and before the residual valve . It will be on the front brake side of MC . Will this work OK ?

Yes - good as any place

Originally Posted by IC2

Yes - good as any place

Thanks for the info

Hey Dave; So does the brake fluid run thru the switch?
I've removed everything from under the dash, and the dash is getting cut out after the frame is welded in. The vent in front of my front window is getting cut out too, then
new sheet metal will be put in there to close off that junk collector.
That thing just collected leaves and rotted out the vent box up under the dash.
Gonna build a new flat face dash and install all new gages in it.
Right now I can lean on the back of the car and the body does wheelies,
Maybe I should invest in some wheelie bars!!! HE! HE! HE! Thanks Kurt

The brake pressure switch looks like a small oil pressure light switch.., when the brake is applied the fluid pressure closes the contacts and turns on the brake lights... Just run a fused power lead to one terminal, then connect a wire to the other terminal and this wire goes to your tailights and the brake light element of the bulb holder... really simple and all out of the way from the other clutter under the dash.

This may be the switch referred to. I use it on our coupe. It is actually of a Ford, I think 70's models.

Larry

Well I still have not figured out how to post small pictures. I apologize.

Thanks Dave and Larry for all the good info and photo's.
You guys have a Happy Easter. Kurt

A tri five Chevy sw will work. It's a button (2 wire). When pedal is
relaxed it pushes in the shut off. It's adjustable. I welded a bracket
on the steering column brace on my Ranchero that lines up with pedal.
There might be universal ones as well.

I use the same switch Dave referred to on my '35 chevrolet.....it's been working perfectly for 14 years I recommend it.

I've used the hydraulic version for years in many cars - Ford used that basic switch at least until they went to the dual MC. Just get a good brand, i.e. Standard, NAPa or similar. The POS that the guy who supplied my SS brake lines was Chinese - and I trashed it and got a Standard. I thought I had an 'as installed' photo, but couldn't find one that was good enough to attach.

Just replaced the same switch on my 51 Frazer. The hardest part of changing it was getting to it. Between drivers side the framerail and the body.

Chris

Dave W is right about getting a good brand. I worked for Standard for 15 yrs and they supply the switches to NAPA, BWD and others. I bought the Auto Zone one one night when there was a show the next morning early and just have not changed it but I will.
Larry