1960 no brake lights unless headlights on

[Mike124]

My brake lights don’t work unless I have the headlights on. I believe it’s the switch on the master cylinder. Is there a way to test it to see if it is bad?

 

[biddle]

You will get more responses if you have a better title. "1960 brake lights" could mean anything. I updated it.

 

[Ward 57]

It most likely not the switch if they do work with the headlights on. Your problem is where the power comes from. The brake lights should have constant power even with the lights and ignition off. they are miss-wired.

 

[ClassicReagan]

Have you tried checking your regulator? I've had something close to that, so I installed a new regulator and I no longer have any issues with it.

 

[74 Harley]

Maybe you have a bad ground in the brake light system.

 

[sre]

I have exactly the same problem. I have a 1957 T-bird. All the lights worked correctly including brake lights. until I brought the car home from getting a front end alignment. I realize getting a front end alignment hasn't got anything to do with the brake light circuit. This car has 4 miles on odometer since frame off restoration.

 

[Ward 57]

I have exactly the same problem. I have a 1957 T-bird. All the lights worked correctly including brake lights. until I brought the car home from getting a front end alignment. I realize getting a front end alignment hasn't got anything to do with the brake light circuit. This car has 4 miles on odometer since frame off restoration.

It's possible you didn't notice it until you got it back home. Probably a wrong connection on the light switch.