The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The Electrical Bay 46 Brake Lights

My wife was driving the truck and I noticed that the brake lights came on but then almost immediately went off. We checked the brake line and all is well...When we first touch the brake and press down to stop the lights come on and stay on...but if you press down real hard they turn off. Any insights on where to start on this issue would be appreciated.
46Trucker
Craig

46Trucker,

If memory serves me correct, the 1941-46 trucks have different types of brake light switches. 1941 has a hydraulically activated sensor that mounts directly (plumbed) into the master cylinder, and 1942-1946, they went to a mechanically activated switch that attaches to the toeboard inside the engine compartment.

You also mentioned that you checked the “brake line”. Are you referring to the wires or the hydraulic brake lines? My first guess would be to check the switch with a volt meter, while taking your reading, see if you can duplicate your problem while stepping on the brake. If so, then the problem could be your switch. If unable to duplicate at the switch, then it must be between the switch and the taillights.
Hope this helps,

Dale

Dale
Thank you for your insightful reply..I will check the switch on Saturday...when I referred to the brake lines I ment the wires...they are all connected and clean...
Again
Thanks
Craig

99% chance its the stop light switch. About six or eight bucks at any of the vendors and two screws holding it in place.
DG