changing rear brake switch
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,054
Likes: 26
From: Florida
I did mine a couple of years ago and didn't have to bleed the brakes (which isn't that hard to do anyway). If you have everything together and ready you should be able to remove the old switch and thread in the new one with VERY minimal loss of fluid. In my case, it was literally a drop or two. Put a small amount of thread sealer and set it as close as possible so that you can pick it right up and thread it into place. Have some rags ready and maybe a little soapy water in a spray bottle to clean up the few drops that you will lose. Overall, it was pretty simple for me and not real need to bleed the brakes unless you are ****-retentive about that sort of thing.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,583
Likes: 115
From: Boston, MA
Skeez ain't lying. I had to replace head and base gaskets so I had the exhaust of anyway and I knew rear switch was shot. Removed wires and connected them with a jumper and light went out. Went to dealership and got switch for less than 20 bux. I had brake fluid in garage and cut a water bottle in half and dropped switch in it for a minute. Used water pumps to remove the switch picked up switch and screwed it on. No brakes bled. Tightened new switch with a box wrench as this was noticeably smaller. I electric taped the wires for added security and peace ofmind.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,054
Likes: 26
From: Florida
New switch purchased at dealership $15 and installed by me in 15 minutes.
I bet that for that $39, the dealership did NOT bleed the brakes...
I bet that for that $39, the dealership did NOT bleed the brakes...
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,269
Likes: 7
From: Liverpool UK
I disconnected the wires from the switch and the light went out does that mean it's definitely the switch.. I've just ordered one anyway..thanks
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,269
Likes: 7
From: Liverpool UK
I just looked. Should be able to get a ring spanner on it, if not I have a pair of grips that I can use. But I still don't know if it's the switch that is the problem, like I said I pulled a wire off and it went out.