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Old 01-04-2014, 02:55 PM   #1
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No Brake Lights

I just discovered on the 1000 mile trip I just did to DV that I have no brake lights. Last time I know that I did was when I re-finished the PH top a few months back.

Here's what is stumping me:
- confirmed good fuse
- confirmed power to brake light switch
- confirmed power out of brake light switch when brake is pushed
- confirmed both turn signals work
- confirmed running lights work
- confirmed emergency flashers work
- confirmed all bulbs are good (including SMB installed third brake light in PH top)
- I've tried tracing wires from the lights back and brake light switch out, but they disappear into the depths of the van and wiring harnesses very quickly

I'm open to any and all thoughts or suggestions. I usually have a clue, but I have exhausted all available clues I had.

Oh, and it is a 2005 E350 w/ 6.0PSD

Thanks,
Phil

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Old 01-04-2014, 04:16 PM   #2
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Re: No Brake Lights

Do the turn signals and 4-way flashers work? If yes, its the multi-fucion switch (turn signal lever).
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Old 01-04-2014, 07:40 PM   #3
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Re: No Brake Lights

Turn signals and flashers work, but confused on how the multi-function switch interacts with the brake lights. Can you explain or do you have a wiring diagram you could share?

Thanks
Phil
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Old 01-04-2014, 08:38 PM   #4
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Re: No Brake Lights

Never mind, did some further research and see that the brake light circuit does pass through the multi-function switch. The engineer that did that should have been fired.

I'll check it out tomorrow.

Thanks,
Phil
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Old 01-04-2014, 09:06 PM   #5
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Re: No Brake Lights

Quote:
Originally Posted by pjpvi
Never mind, did some further research and see that the brake light circuit does pass through the multi-function switch. The engineer that did that should have been fired.
Haha. Its so your brake lights don't over-ride the 4-way hazards like they used to do on the old vans. It also allows easier re-configurating for separate rear turns signals like is required for international markets and even domestic bus and commercial vehicle applications.
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Old 01-04-2014, 11:51 PM   #6
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Re: No Brake Lights

Yeah, I'm sure there was a good reason, but just creates another failure point. I'll pull apart tomorrow and make sure voltage is getting to the MF switch. If so, I'll assume it is bad and replace it. Doesn't sound very difficult.

Thanks for the insight Carringb!

Phil
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Old 01-05-2014, 07:21 AM   #7
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Re: No Brake Lights

You might as well just replace the MF switch anyway if you haven't in the past. They seem to be almost a regular wear item. Replaced mine (easy, thanks to help on this and the Ford van forums) and it cured a few weird light issues. $70 well spent.
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Old 01-05-2014, 09:02 AM   #8
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Re: No Brake Lights

This is one component which you are probably better served in the aftermarket. I trust the Napa Echlin MFS more than the OEM switch, and you get a better warranty!
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Old 01-05-2014, 09:33 AM   #9
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Re: No Brake Lights

Thanks, but already ordered the Motorcraft.

Funny the wear items I never thought of as wear items that have hit me recently. Nearly all the door lock actuators in my 2004 Infiniti died about at the same time as the vehicle approached 100k miles. A little research showed that is a very common failure. Some items you just don't think of. I also know a few of the lock actuators in the van are starting to go.

Anyway, hopefully this resolves the problem.
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Old 01-05-2014, 11:46 AM   #10
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Re: No Brake Lights

I went with the Echlin at CarringB's suggestion. Seemed to be of good quality. Think it has a three-year warranty, and was around $70 or so.

Really handy step-by-step photo guide to replacement at http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/11535 ... added.html
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