Register now to get rid of these ads!

1952-59 Ford 55 Ford brake lights not working

Discussion in 'Off Topic Hot Rods & Customs' started by Mr. Tomato Head, Aug 9, 2025.

Tags:
  1. Mr. Tomato Head
    Joined: Feb 26, 2008
    Posts: 381

    Mr. Tomato Head
    Member

    Hey guys. The brake lights on my 55 Ford Country Sedan recently stopped working. (I had to find out the hard way with a guy pulling up next to me and bringing it to my attention.) The taillights are getting power. I cleaned the connections on the two plugs connected to the switch attached to the master cylinder. Still nothing. I traced wiring under the carpeting as far as I could. It seems fine. The wiring in the tailgate seems okay as well. Thoughts?
     
  2. Adriatic Machine
    Joined: Jan 26, 2008
    Posts: 919

    Adriatic Machine
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Are the light fixtures grounded to the body? I would remove them and ensure you’re getting a good ground. Also consider running a dedicated ground wire.
     
    down-the-road likes this.
  3. Mr. Tomato Head
    Joined: Feb 26, 2008
    Posts: 381

    Mr. Tomato Head
    Member

    I think it's the brake light switch. Ordering a new one on Monday. Thanks guys.
     
    Adriatic Machine likes this.
  4. jimmy six
    Joined: Mar 21, 2006
    Posts: 17,056

    jimmy six
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Brake light switch on the master cylinder……. Get one from a Harley Davidson dealership. Best ones out there !
     
    bobss396 likes this.
  5. bobss396
    Joined: Aug 27, 2008
    Posts: 18,735

    bobss396
    Member

    I found a good one on eBay, trips at 25 psi. I have a spare in the glove box.
     
  6. JeffB2
    Joined: Dec 18, 2006
    Posts: 9,665

    JeffB2
    Member
    from Phoenix,AZ

    If you still have the original master cylinder those are prone to failing, some guys convert those to something like this, it is a GM switch with a homemade bracket has been done often. donkey.jpeg
     
    ottersea, bobss396 and nosford like this.
  7. Paul2748
    Joined: Jan 8, 2003
    Posts: 2,442

    Paul2748
    Member

    On my 54, I converted to n electric switch. This is the best thing.. If adjusted right, instant brake light when you touch the pedal to warn the other drivers.
     
    JeffB2 and down-the-road like this.

Share This Page

Register now to get rid of these ads!

Archive

Copyright © 1995-2021 The Jalopy Journal: Steal our stuff, we'll kick your teeth in. Terms of Service. Privacy Policy.

Atomic Industry
Forum software by XenForo™ ©2010-2014 XenForo Ltd.