Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

for the last 2 days people have stopped beside me to tell me my brake lights are not working. It is true that if I don't put alot of pressure on the pedal the light does not come on, but if put alot of pressure on the pedal thay come on, do I need a new switch? or is there an aftermarket electric switch (where would I get one)

would taking the switch out and cleaning it make a difference

some people get a thrill telling you that there is a problem with your ride

You only need a two-terminal hydraulic switch. It is cheap and easy to replace. If you are using silicon brake fluid then I would recommend a mechanical-style switch that can be mounted on the lower steering column and actuated by the brake pedal itself. Silicon brake fluid will ruin a hydraulic switch in about a year.
I know of no way to clean a sealed hydraulic switch.

I am using Silicon brake fluid

where can I get a mechanical-style switch ?

If you have power brakes, here's how to do a 55-6 with the switch numbers. Available at any parts store. You wouldn't need the switch with extra terminals for the TL but same switch would work fine on regular cars and not too expensive. I don't know how bracket measurements would fit on your car but am sure it could be adapted. If you have regular brakes, then same principal but entirely different arrangement to pedals.

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I found this tpye of switch will it work

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Am sure it will work electrically. Just a matter of figuring out how/where you will mount it. Looks like it would go on firewall and lever adjusted to pedal arm..Not sure about regular brakes.

Just as a matter of broader interest, the Packard service manual, when advising on how to find a current drain that is draining the battery when the car is not being used, notes that one common cause is a defective brake light switch.

I guess this is because that switch is wired so that it is "hot" even with the ignition off, on most cars, for safety reasons.

So, when it starts to get erratic in its normal function, you might also develop a battery discharge problem.

Jim G

I belive someone said that a 70's VW switch is a direct replacement for the Packard switch. I just dont have the parts number.

The following two Wells hydraulic brake light switches will work on the 55th/56th series cars:

Wells BF 4805 - two prong for non torsion-level
Wells RB 403 - three prong for cars with torsion-level

The electrical connectors on the RB 403,(that fits early '70s VWs) three prong switch are different but, internally and operationally it is the same switch as the original and can be used by changing the wiring connectors.

The two-prong switch, listed above, is a direct replacement for the one on the 55th & 56th series, non torsion-level suspension cars. I do not know but would suspect that it can be used on earlier models.

Loyd, if you can add those to the parts database that would be great! Thanks.