Front Brake Light Switch Blues
 

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE POST before replying. THANKS

I'm helping a friend work on his 1979 Super Glide. I haven't owned or worked on an older bike like this for years. One of his problems is the front brake light switch 72001-69B. He said it hasn't worked for years. I'm a strong believer in safety equipment and want to fix it. As I remember these switches just never lasted. I believe brake fluid fumes or residue attacked the plastic in the switch. In these many, many years, has any company made one of these switches that does last and stay working? Any ideas?

I originally posted this inquiry in another chat room and got many replies, BUT NONE that answered my question. I'm only interested in solving the problem with a GOOD QUALITY switch. If you can tell me where to get one THANKS a lot.

I did buy one of those cheap generic switches and it failed right away. It didn't work even once.

And yes, I do know what I'm doing. I got my first bike (a 1975 XLH) in 1976, and have been riding and working on HDs ever since.

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.hdf...7928da5330.jpg

Usually, only go OEM original. However, after needing to replace my 3rd rear switch, I just gave up and at least went lifetime free replacement. Interesting, it has lasted longer than three of Harleys. AutoZone.
This stuff use to last the life of a vehicle. My two-year-old car has a recall to replace it next week. Boils down to whoever gives the best bid on parts makes the junk.


https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.hdf...a598ca38ca.jpg

Thanks, but I'm only interested in finding a good FRONT brake light switch. Today I might try to get a Genuine Harley made switch, but I'll have to travel to a different city to gat one, as my local HD dealer is NOT an honest businessman.

Good luck...I am likely to rummage one up at swap meets etc... there are still stock harnesses out there, as some people prefer New regardless...
Patience... is the Only way..unless you want to change things dramatically...So, what I just said is...No I have Not found an aftermarket pre '82 Switch of any kind that is worth installing...

Cool. I did not realize that was actually a front brake light switch till I looked it up. I'm so used to those microswitches in the clamshell. Appears to be $20 from Ronnies. No big deal. Doubt anyone is going to have a better one. All kinds of them on ebay for $7.00 or so. Sure China man makes them all.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Harley-XL-S...frcectupt=true

we buy the oem ones art swap meets usually have to buy the switch box with it and I don't care the originals are the only ones that actually work

There is no switch box involved. It screws into the front brake master cylinder assembly.

He means the Switch housing....Us Old Farts...sometimes speak in riddles!!!
And Like I ... and he, says... Only OE are worth installing, and mostly they are Only available at Swaps etc..
Do Not be fooled by some Stealership Parts departments telling you they are available... they get them Aftermarket...just like yer Indy...

I just went through this as well. The aftermarket switches are junk. My second one seems to work a little better but I find myself checking it constantly to make sure it works. And its a PITA to replace it.

thanks race - the swaps have take offs maybe he never experienced having to buy the starter button - directional head light button and the housings and in the mix is the front brake switch hanging on the two wires - also having it removed you can confirm its a real one and its not broken