Install Third Brake Light

Ramblin Reck

Ramblin Reck

Senior Member
Bought a third brake light from Summit Racing, the kind that attaches to the license plate. Of course no instructions came with it, not even what the Red, White and Black wires are for. One connects to Brake Light, another connects to Turn Signal and the third is ?????? I have asked Summit but it being Memorial Day, it might be Tuesday before I get an answer.



My 1939 Ford is 12Volt Positive Ground. Me thinks that if I attach the stop light wire to one rear stop light wire, I should be in business assuming the bezel that it is in is grounded. Maybe one wire is ground, I am not sure but if it is then that wire should be grounded. Not concerned with Turn Signals as I don't have turn signals installed.



I was thinking about using the Self stripping Quick Connectors to attach to the stop light wire, BUT that wire is cloth insulated not PVC insulated like on the 3rd Brake Light. Not sure how or even if that type of connector would work on 1930's cloth insulated wires. Any thoughts or ideas will be appreciated. Thanks!
 

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I have seen this type before. When you are all done have someone apply the brake for you. You should be sure that it throws a decent beam.
 
If you have turn signals your third brake lite may flash. Usually run another wire from the brake switch to the third lite.
 
Just to query a 3rd Brake Light with two wires. Am I correct with one wire from rear lights or brake switch and other wire to earth?
As I'm doing similar at present.
Phil NZ
 
325w said:
If you have turn signals your third brake lite may flash. Usually run another wire from the brake switch to the third lite.
Click to expand...

If you have a turn signal switch, the turn signals run through the brake light wiring. The turn signals' flasher interrupts the voltage to the brake light bulb causing it to flash. You cannot just tap into the wire at the bulb or it will flash with either the right or left bulb depending on which one was used for power. You will need to power it from the outgoing wire at the brake light switch before it goes to the turn signal switch.

Many people have gotten their butts kicked trying to fix something that wouls seem as simple as a brake light. After replacing bulbs, brake light switch, wiring and grounds it was a bad "turn signal switch". The turn signals will work but the brake lights will not because they did not realize they both operate through the turn signal switch.
 
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