brake light switch

[ayjay]

I've just got some ali in to start the body panels.Whilst on my knees next to the pedal box making the templates I spot this little switch I left there months ago ready to fit
Ive no idea how to mount it or how it was mounted in the sierra originally. Its a little electrical push switch .
I'd better do it now or it will be impossible later. Any ideas please

[voucht]

I'm not 100% sure, but I think this electric switch is revered : it opens the circuit when pushed (no light) and closes it when released (brake light is on). Somebody might confirm. Test it to be sure, then you'll need to find a way to install it in front of your brake pedal, but it won't be easy. Any chance you can insert an hydraulic brake light switch on your copper brake lines ?

[ayjay]

Thanks Sylvain.I think you may be right .A hydraulic switch may be the tidier option.

[brainbug007]

I was wondering this myself as from everything I've read mechanical switches are much better like what was fitted in the sierra. I thought the hydraulic ones where prone to being not sensitive enough and the lights not always coming on unless you really mash the pedal down. What have others done who've got cars through IVA?

[HandyAndy]

I have the hydraulic switch, its fitted very close to the M.C. in the brake line that feeds the drivers side front caliper & it activates the brake lights as soon as I put a slight pressure on the pedal.

BUT

I have heard that these type of switches are prone to trapping air in them , a few people have them sitting at an angle so stop this...i.e the switch on its side so to speak.

HTH.

cheers
andy

[AshG]

i had a hydraulic switch on my car but after the third one failing i gave up and fitted a micro switch on the pedal and have never looked back. i will go out and take a picture tomorrow if the rain holds off.

[ayjay]

Cheers -a pic would be helpful in order to decide on the best option

[voucht]

Adrian, you can also ask jiwillia who said he had to change to an electric switch too in this thread (out of the main topic) http://www.haynes.co.uk/forums/showt...2415#post72415, last thread so far.
Bye.
Sylvain

[jiwillia]

I used a motorcycle rear brake stop light switch (Honda style - plenty on ebay) fixed in a bracket and operated from the brake master cylinder actuator yoke/rod. Some pics below. Hope this helps.

[Wynand]

I used a switch that is activated off a cam cut into the brake pedal when I built the pedal box - any movement of the pedal and the brake lights are on. (sensitivity depends on setup of switch)
Here are some pics of mine. The loud pedal step however, had been modified after these pics were taken when permanently fitted to car.