I've got a '73 Mini 1000 that uses a hydraulic switch to activate the brake lights. It takes a pretty good shove to have brake lights - sometimes more than what is required to stop the car. The switch was replaced and I still have the issue.
Any ideas?

 

I have a '73 with an adjustable brake switch on the brake pedal that controls the tail lights. It is very easy to adjust to allow the lights to turn on when the pedal is barely pressed without engaging the brakes. Perhaps you can convert your setup to one that uses the brake pedal switch? You would need to reroute the wires from the existing hydraulic switch position to the pedal box, then mount the brake switch on the pedal box.

Brake switch

I can provide you a picture of how my switch (just like in the link above) mounts to the pedal box assembly if you need it.

Jeff

 

Jeff - that would be great. If you have a photo or sketch it would be helpful.

 

Here's a couple of snapshots of the switch installed. Clearly there's more to it than just the switch. There's also the switch retainer that bolts to the pedal box and the other flat metal piece that keeps the switch from rotating.

My guess is that one of the Mini parts houses can supply you with all of the necessary pieces.

Good luck,
Jeff

 

Yours works via the brake line when you replaced it did you bleed the system properly.......furthest from resovoir first..............

 

Mk1Leg: Yep, I sure did. I thought about an air bubble in the fitting where the switch threads in. Air compresses and hydraulic fluid does not - maybe the problem? With the fitting pointed 'up' it's pretty hard to get a trapped bubble out.
Jeffm: I need to see if my pedals are drilled for that or how difficult it would be to retrofit.

Thanks!

 

Hey Jeff, from the looks of it, that newer switch is in the "always open" configuration and then when the pedal removes itself from the switch, it closes and thus bridges the connection for the brake lamp?

 

Yes, brake pedal is depressed, switch plunger extends, internal switch contacts short, then the two electrical contacts are shorted together completing the circuit.

The switch body is threaded so that the 'sweet spot' can be adjusted such that you can fine tune when the brake lights come on.

Jeff

 

Use a ezee-bleed kit ............... http://www.minisport.com/mini-spare-..._GUNG4062.html