Studebaker 7E12 Brake Light Switch: A Comprehensive Guide for 1962 Models
Keep your classic Studebaker truck safe and road-legal by ensuring its brake light switch is functioning correctly.
- A faulty brake light switch is a critical safety issue and should be replaced immediately.
- For a 1962 Studebaker 7E12, a new aftermarket switch from a brand like Standard Ignition is the most practical and reliable option.
- Replacement is a simple, inexpensive DIY task that most owners can complete in under 30 minutes.
- The common Studebaker part number for this switch is 666858, which can be used for cross-referencing.
Is Your Studebaker's Brake Light Switch Failing?
A bad brake light switch on a vintage truck like the 1962 Studebaker 7E12 is a major safety hazard. You won't get a warning light on your dashboard; you'll only find out when you check the lights or when someone tells you they aren't working. The symptoms are usually very clear.
🎬 Watch this video to identify common brake light switch symptoms.Key Symptoms of a Bad Brake Light Switch:
- Brake Lights Don't Turn On: This is the most dangerous symptom. The switch fails to complete the electrical circuit, so your brake lights never get the signal to illuminate.
- Brake Lights Stay On Constantly: The switch can also get stuck in the 'on' position. This confuses other drivers and will drain your truck's battery when it's parked.
- Flickering or Intermittent Brake Lights: The internal contacts of the switch can wear out, causing an unreliable connection that makes the lights flicker when you press the pedal or drive over bumps.
Safety First: Before you decide the switch is the problem, always check the simple things first. Make sure the brake light bulbs are good and check the fuse for the brake light circuit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For a 1962 vehicle, finding a new original equipment (OEM) part from Studebaker is not a realistic option. Your choices are typically New Old Stock (NOS), used original parts, or brand-new aftermarket parts.
- New Old Stock (NOS): These are original parts that have been sitting on a shelf for decades. They can be very expensive and hard to find. Rubber or plastic components on them may have become brittle over time.
- Used OEM: A used part from a salvage yard is an option, but you risk having the same failure happen again soon.
- New Aftermarket: For a simple and common part like a brake light switch, a new aftermarket part is the most practical and reliable choice. Brands like Standard Ignition (also known as Standard Motor Products or SMP) produce direct-fit replacements that are affordable and widely available. They are a trusted name for classic vehicle electrical components.
Pro Tip: Some Studebaker owners, particularly those who have converted to silicone brake fluid, have noted that the original style hydraulic pressure switches can be prone to failure. While many 7E12 trucks use a mechanical switch at the pedal, if yours has a hydraulic switch, be aware that aftermarket mechanical conversion kits are available for some Studebaker models.
Typical Replacement Costs
Replacing the brake light switch is one of the most affordable repairs you can make. The part itself is inexpensive, and the labor involved is minimal.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Switch | $15 - $25 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $65 - $125 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary based on your location and specific repair shop. Labor is often billed at a minimum of 0.5 to 1 hour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace a brake light switch on my 1962 Studebaker 7E12?
No, this is a very easy job for a DIY-er. The switch is usually located under the dashboard, mounted on a bracket near the top of the brake pedal arm. The job involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging two wires, and unscrewing the old switch. Installation is the reverse of removal and typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Are there any recalls for the 1962 Studebaker 7E12 brake light switch?
No recalls were found for this specific part and vehicle in the NHTSA database. This is common for vehicles of this age, as digital records are incomplete and many recalls are over 15 years old.
What is the OEM part number for this switch?
According to Studebaker parts specialists, the common brake light switch for 1942-1964 trucks is part number 666858. You can use this number to cross-reference with aftermarket suppliers to ensure a correct fit.
Why do my brake lights stay on?
If your bulbs and wiring are good, the most likely cause is a brake light switch that has failed in the 'closed' or 'on' position. This keeps the electrical circuit active continuously, and the switch must be replaced.
🎬 Learn more about diagnosing and fixing a faulty brake switch.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 666858
Typically a 2-terminal, mechanical plunger-style switch mounted near the brake pedal arm.
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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.