1960 Studebaker 5E12D Brake Light Switch: Replacement and Diagnosis Guide
Understanding the simple but critical hydraulic brake light switch in your classic Studebaker truck.
- Your truck uses a hydraulic pressure switch, not a mechanical one by the pedal.
- A faulty switch is a critical safety issue; the most common symptom is brake lights not working at all.
- Be aware that modern DOT 5 silicone brake fluid may cause premature failure in some aftermarket switches.
- Replacement is a simple DIY task that usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Is Your Studebaker's Brake Light Switch Failing?
A faulty brake light switch on a classic truck like the 1960 5E12D is a major safety hazard. The electrical system is simple, which makes finding the problem straightforward. Before blaming the switch, always check the easiest things first: make sure the brake light bulbs are good and check the fuse.
Key Failure Symptoms
- Brake Lights Do Not Turn On: This is the most dangerous symptom. If the bulbs and fuse are fine, the switch has likely failed and is not completing the electrical circuit when you brake.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, leaving the brake lights constantly lit. This will drain your battery when parked and confuse other drivers.
- Flickering or Intermittent Lights: Worn internal parts can cause the lights to flicker when you press the pedal or even when you hit a bump. This means the switch is unreliable and needs replacement.
Warning: Check Your Brake Fluid Type
Many Studebaker owners use modern DOT 5 silicone brake fluid. However, some aftermarket hydraulic brake light switches are not compatible with silicone fluid and can fail quickly. The Standard Ignition switch is a reliable replacement designed for the original style DOT 3 brake fluid. If you use silicone fluid, be aware that you may experience premature switch failure.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
Finding a new original equipment (OEM) brake light switch from Studebaker is no longer possible. The most practical and reliable solution is a new aftermarket part.
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): As a long-time manufacturer of automotive parts, Standard Ignition (SMP) is a well-known and trusted brand for classic vehicles. Their hydraulic switches are designed to be direct-fit replacements that provide reliable service. For your 5E12D, this is the go-to choice for a stock replacement.
Pro Tip: Mechanical Switch Conversion
For improved reliability, many Studebaker owners modify their trucks to use a modern mechanical switch located at the brake pedal. This eliminates the hydraulic switch, providing faster light activation and removing a potential brake fluid leak point. This conversion requires custom fabrication and wiring but is a popular upgrade in the Studebaker community.
Replacement Cost and Labor
Replacing the brake light switch is one of the cheaper and easier repairs you can perform on your truck. The part itself is inexpensive, and labor is minimal.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Switch | $15.52 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
| New OEM Switch | Not Available |
| Used OEM Switch | Varies (Salvage) |
Prices are estimates and may vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the brake light switch on my 1960 Studebaker 5E12D?
The brake light switch is a hydraulic pressure switch located outside the cabin. Look for it screwed into the master cylinder or a nearby brake line junction block on the vehicle's frame. It will have two wires connected to it.
How can I test my brake light switch?
After confirming your bulbs and fuse are good, locate the switch. Unplug the two wires and use a jumper wire to connect the two wire terminals together. If the brake lights turn on, the switch is bad and needs to be replaced. If they do not light up, you have a problem elsewhere in the wiring.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a very easy job for most owners. Have the new switch ready to go. Simply unplug the wires, unscrew the old switch, and quickly screw the new one in to minimize brake fluid loss. You may need to top off the brake fluid. If too much air enters the system, you will need to bleed the brakes.
Are there any recalls for the brake light switch on this truck?
No recalls were found in the NHTSA database for the brake light switch on the 1960 Studebaker 5E12D. This is common for vehicles from this era, as documentation was not as extensive as it is today.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 666858
The brake light switch for the 1960 Studebaker 5E12D is a hydraulic pressure switch. It typically features a screw-in design with two terminals for the 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.