Tail light problem 1962 Corvette

[Hank Rossi]

Rear wire harness just replaced during frame off of C-1 1962. The brake lights work intermittently, when the turn signals aren't used. Sometimes one works, sometimes the other, sometimes neither. Using the turn signal will change which brake light works or does not work. If the left left signal is on the right brake light works but not the left, and vice versa.
When the lights do not work they are not getting power. I ran a ground wire from the block and checked power, nothing. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,

Hank

[William C.]

Re: Tail light problem 1962 Corvette

I'd start with the turn signal switch and connections from the column to the harness and work back from there.

[Jack H.]

More...

The TS switch assy used in this era Corvette is an OLD design from GM dating back to the early 50's when the TS function was an option (add-on feature for the steering column). No engineer in his right mind today would duplicate the way this system works!

First, the system is 'break before make' which means when you move the TS lever off center, you're in 'no mans land' until the switch 'clicks' into the RH or LH turn position. During that period, you have NO REAR LIGHTS!!!!!!

Second, the system relies on the mechanical integrity of: (1) the internal switch cancelling function, and (2) the rigidity of the TS housing to steering column mounting. If there's ANY appreciable 'slop' you've got a problem...

The switch does NOT have a detent for its center function and relies totally on the mechanics (above) to dead nuts center the switch! If you can wiggle the TS housing relative to the steering column OR wiggle the TS lever relative to the TS housing, that's where your problem lies...

When factory new, the TS housing was solid as the Rock of Gilbratar on the steering column. Plus, when the cancelling mechanism engaged, the TS lever SNAPPED crisply back to dead nuts center and maintained that position solidly.

Most of the daily driver cars from this era have excess wear and exhibit mechanical slop. Drivers need to understand this and periodically check/verify the TS lever's center position while driving until they get the mechanics of their TS system properly repaired to prevent driving without tail/brake lamps...