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+--- Thread: Brake light switch operation (/showthread.php?tid=8740)
Brake light switch operation - wild_willy - 16-07-2023
Could some one please let me know if the brake light switch is operated by a spring connected to the brake pull rod or is it a different arrangement altogether. A spring seems to need to be a fairly strong one with more pedal travel required than I would like. The switch is the standard Lucas type and has been reconditioned.
I thought it was a spring originally but maybe not.
RE: Brake light switch operation - Ivor Hawkins - 16-07-2023
Mine has a spring and it’s easy to adjust by loosening the clamp on the brake rod and tightening up when you have enough travel to switch the brake lights on.
RE: Brake light switch operation - Graham Barker - 16-07-2023
My 1937 Ruby has a brake light switch pulled "on" by a spring attached to a brake as described by Ivor. Another spring inside the switch returns the switch to the "off" position when the brake pedal is released.
RE: Brake light switch operation - wild_willy - 16-07-2023
OK a spring it is then. Thanks for the replies.
RE: Brake light switch operation - falcott - 29-10-2024
Apologies for resurrecting a dead thread, but I wish to ask about the strength and type of spring for a '36 Ruby. The one that is fitted seems somewhat weak, and makes/breaks contact once it is adjusted to actually work. Is it possible that someone can take a photo of what works for them please? I also don't wish to have a spring that is too strong. Thanks for your help.
RE: Brake light switch operation - Peter Naulls - 29-10-2024
This is not an original spring but it works. It is 16swg wire and 5/16" outside diameter.
No comments about the state of my car please!
RE: Brake light switch operation - Ivor Hawkins - 29-10-2024
Lovely Peter, it shows that it’s being used!
RE: Brake light switch operation - Pearls not a Singer - 29-10-2024
It should always have a spring in the connection. This ensures that when braking in extremity the brake pedal application is not limited by the switch travel and/or the switch is not destroyed by massive force. The internal spring in the switch is weaker as it only needs to overcome the weight of the pedal after the size 12 boot has been removed.
RE: Brake light switch operation - falcott - 31-10-2024
Thanks guys. The spring on my car seems somewhat weaker than the spring inside the switch, so it needs long travel (of brake pedal) to activate it.