Tom,
The switching mechanism (contacts) are mechanical.
The brake hydraulic fluid moves a synthetic rubber small internal
diaphragm against the mechanical switch. Yes, the diaphragm can
deteriorate, and no longer move.
The hydraulic fluid side could get crudded up by hydraulic fluid
contamination, the seal of the diaphragm could fail and allow fluid onto
the electrical contacts.
There are British and American brake light switches like this, with
varying straight / pipe / whitworth threads that are NOT safely
interchangeable.
The mechanical type brake pedal switch was on my Mustang steering column
area, near the pedals. The Tiger switch is original.
All last a long time, excepting rust, fluid contamination, incorrect
replacement. All have their good and bad features. All should last a
long time. Using the switch to operate a relay will certainly allow the
internal contacts to last longer, with small current, however there will
be a small relay switching time delay.
Steve
___
Steve Laifman
Editor - TigersUnited.com
Thomas Witt wrote:
> Just curious, has anyone ever taken the brake light switch apart? Does the
>switch work "in the fluid" or is there a seal and the contacts are dry? If
>it is a wet type of switch perhaps the effects of arcing change the
>properties of the silicone fluid either by gelling it or the silicone leaves
>an insulating residue on the contacts.
>
> I moved the location of my switch and if memory serves me correctly it
>originally came out the side of the splitter (???). If that is the case
>per
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