Brake Light short?

[Brian.N]

Have a problem with our 64 1/2 brake lights.
Non-functioning, so I've replaced the switch on the master brake cylinder (its not on the brake pedal arm on 64s), the turn signal switch in the steering column and checked the bulbs in the rear and checked the wiring harness in the trunk. I've tested continuity where I could, and all the wires in the new switch to make sure I didn't pull something when snaking it down through the column.
Still no brake lights - and only the left turn signal. Night lights with the headlamps light up.
Nice to have this happen before Carlisle... sigh...
Anyone have any ideas?
- Brian

[Charlie Buhl]

Brian, I'm no expert, but I know Richard Porter has had the following issues in trying to get my brake lights and turn signals to work.

1. Do the 4 way flashers work? The plug in flasher module in the glove compartment on the '66 can cause taillight problems if its bad.

2. The taillight housings themselves serve as the ground for the curcuit, and if the lights don't work the housings may need to be secured more tightly or (I think) have the facings that contact the body roughed up with some light sandpaper.

Richard can surely provide more info. My best shot. Charlie

[Brian.N]

Thanks,
I'll try the housings again.
There is no 4 way on 64s.
Brian

[Brian.N]

No joy on the housings.
Adding a grounding wire had no effect.
Picked up a wiring harness at CJ's on my way to Carlisle Friday morning and got it almost all the way in. Need to make the final connections under the dash.
The old one looked like hell, would not be surprised if it was shorting out someplace.
At least I sure hope that is it - really don't want to be under the dash replacing that one right now.
Brian

[shelby07]

Just yesterday replaced the turn signal switch in the 97. The left front signal didn't work and it presented as a bad bulb. The posts showed it was good, but it wasn't! Don't know if this is the same thing or not?

[Brian.N]

Thanks Buddy,
But it's not a relational item.
I did the turn signal switch on my 98, and the "plug n play" aspect of that one would be a joy in a 64. I've got the new taillight harness installed, now I'm under the dash connecting it, and double checking all that wiring for chafing and shorts, cleaning contacts as I go. Hopefully 6/13 I'll have good news to report.
Brian

[Brian.N]

Wiring harness in the trunk look like heck and taillight wires came loose on occasion, so got a new taillight/gas gauge wiring harness at CJ's while at Carlisle. Man that is so much better. Checked everything I could under the dash, then got the new one all fed through and made the last connections today (and missed Sully)- Got turn signals and night lights - but no brake lights.
I am stumped.
Does anyone have any thoughts or ideas?
Thanks,
Brian N