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1978 Goldwing--no brake light?

994 Views 4 Replies 4 Participants Last post by  trmurf
I've got a 1978 Goldwing that I'm enjoying thoroughly. Rescued it from the recycler (literally) and got her running pretty decently (enough to be a daily driver).

Now I've got a weird brake light issue. Taillight powers and lights up no problem but when braking, the brighter additional element in the bulb doesn't light up. I've changed the bulb, and the fuse (just to be sure) and still have the issue. I've inspected the wiring under the seat and don't see anything out of place there either....any suggestions would be appreciated!

UPDATE: After closer examination, it appears the brake light is constantly on (brighter) and doesn't turn off. The issue is the dual filament bulb is staying on for both filaments even though the brake pedals/handle are not depressed. Any ideas?
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Test the brake light switches for continuity when you operate the brake. If the fuse is good, bulb is good and brake switch is good then the likely cause is the reserve lighting system switching unit or reserve lighting resistor is defective. Here is a diagram showing where they are located.

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I've got a 1978 Goldwing that I'm enjoying thoroughly. Rescued it from the recycler (literally) and got her running pretty decently (enough to be a daily driver).

Now I've got a weird brake light issue. Taillight powers and lights up no problem but when braking, the brighter additional element in the bulb doesn't light up. I've changed the bulb, and the fuse (just to be sure) and still have the issue. I've inspected the wiring under the seat and don't see anything out of place there either....any suggestions would be appreciated!

UPDATE: After closer examination, it appears the brake light is constantly on (brighter) and doesn't turn off. The issue is the dual filament bulb is staying on for both filaments even though the brake pedals/handle are not depressed. Any ideas?
You answered it, one or both brake switches are sticking. They need cleaning with electrical contact cleaner and work the switches. Then make sure the rear switch is adjusted properly.
A very likely problem is the switch on the rear brake pedal needs to be adjusted. It is attached to the pedal with a spring and should have little to no tension on the spring when the pedal is all the way up. Also check that the pedal is returning completely up on it's own.
Very helpful diagram. Thanks guys, I'll carve some time this weekend to look into the switches, check, clean and replace if necessary. Really helpful information and very appreciated.
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