1941 Hudson Commodore Series 12 Brake Light Switch Guide
Keeping the brake lights on your classic Hudson working is a critical safety task.
- A faulty brake light switch is a critical safety issue and must be replaced immediately.
- For this vehicle, a new aftermarket switch from a reputable brand like Standard Ignition is the best and most reliable option.
- Common failure symptoms are brake lights that don't work, stay on constantly, or work intermittently.
- Replacement is a straightforward task for a DIY mechanic, with the main consideration being the need to handle brake fluid.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
A faulty brake light switch on a vintage car like the 1941 Hudson Commodore will show some very clear signs. Because this is a simple pressure-activated switch, the failures are usually straightforward.
- Brake Lights Do Not Turn On: This is the most common and dangerous symptom. If the internal mechanism of the switch fails, it won't complete the circuit, and your brake lights will not illuminate when you press the pedal.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can also fail in the 'on' position. This means it is constantly completing the circuit, leaving your brake lights illuminated at all times. This can drain your battery and confuse drivers behind you.
- Delayed or Intermittent Lights: An old switch might require very high pedal pressure to finally activate the lights. This is a sign of internal wear and means the switch is about to fail completely.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For a 1941 vehicle, finding a "New Old Stock" (NOS) OEM part is nearly impossible and often not ideal, as rubber and plastic components can degrade over 80+ years. The most practical and reliable option is a new aftermarket part.
Brand Tiers & Quality
Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): This is a well-established brand in the aftermarket industry, known for producing reliable replacement parts for a vast range of vehicles, including classics. For many vintage applications, Standard is a go-to source for electrical components that meet or exceed the original's performance. Given the simplicity of this part, a switch from a reputable manufacturer like Standard is a dependable choice.
Pro Tip: Some classic car owners report that modern brake fluids, especially DOT 5 silicone fluid, can cause premature failure in reproduction hydraulic brake light switches. While this is debated, it's a point to consider. A quality switch from a brand like Standard Ignition is generally your best defense against early failure.
Installation Overview
Replacing the brake light switch on a 1941 Hudson is a job most DIY mechanics can handle. On vehicles of this era, the switch is typically a pressure switch threaded directly into the master cylinder or a junction block in the brake lines. The process generally involves:
- Disconnecting the battery.
- Carefully unplugging the two wire leads from the old switch.
- Placing a rag underneath to catch any dripping brake fluid.
- Unscrewing the old switch.
- Quickly screwing the new switch into place to minimize fluid loss.
- Reconnecting the wire leads and the battery.
- Topping off the master cylinder with fresh brake fluid and bleeding the brakes if necessary.
Cost of Brake Light Switch Replacement (1941 Hudson Commodore Series 12)
| Part Type | Part Cost | Shop Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Standard Ignition) | $15.52 | $100 - $150 | $115.52 - $165.52 |
| New OEM | Not Available | - | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 1941 Hudson Commodore brake light switch?
No. There are no recalls from the NHTSA for this part on this vehicle. The NHTSA's recall system does not effectively cover vehicles from this era.
Is a new aftermarket switch as good as an original?
Yes. For a simple electrical component like this, a new part from a quality manufacturer like Standard Ignition is often more reliable than an 80-year-old original part, which may have degraded seals.
Why do my brake lights only work if I press the pedal very hard?
This indicates the internal diaphragm of the pressure switch is wearing out and requires more hydraulic pressure to make contact. The switch should be replaced immediately.
Can I replace the brake light switch myself?
Yes, this is a relatively simple task for a home mechanic. The main challenges are dealing with brake fluid and potentially needing to bleed the brakes afterward.
Technical Specifications
Hydraulic pressure activated, 1/8-27 NPT thread (typical for this era), 2-terminal electrical connection.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.