NO brake lights

[wvbuckley]

Ok, I have a 98 4x4 sohc with no brake lights. i checked the fuses and they are good. The brake pedal switch seems to be activating when the pedal is pushed. I am out of town and away from my meters to check voltage or continuity, so does anyone have any idea what the problem could be? thanks

 

[VairKing]

You could check the bulbs, but I would assume its the switch or the wire from the switch to the bulb. A meter would be a big help here.

 

[X~FACTOR]

Is it the break lights from the tail lights or from the 3rd brake light? Is it both right and left or just one is out?

 

[wvbuckley]

It is all three lights. I have my meter with me now and I checked both brake light bulbs and they have continuity, so the bulbs are ok. I am going to check voltage to the "brake pedal switch". It looks there are 4 or 5 wires going into it and the rod end of the linkage activates this switch. Am I correct? I can hear it actuating by putting pressure on the pedal. I dont have a manual to tell me which wire is what so I will check for voltage and then remove it and see it opens or closes with an ohmeter. Any suggestions? thanks

 

[wvbuckley]

ok, I got it. It was the switch on the pedal. Actually, Ford made it with a removable cover (good engineering), so I could see the contacts and sure enough, one set was burnt. With a pocket knife and a little scraping I have brake lights again. I will replace the switch with a new one soon, but at least I wont get rear ended in the meantime, or pulled over (again)
I took some pics of the switch, but forgive me I am a new member and havent a clue as to how to post them.

 

[BarryBecker]

Explorer Brake Problems

Hi....sounds like I have the same problem you had...I am not sure where the brake switch is located..can you describe? Also..you mentioned you took a picture...can you send? Thanks alot
Barry