Third Brake Light on a C1

[Christopher R.]

Now that my car's judging days are over, I want to make some modifications to my '62 to enhance the driving experience. I'd like to add a third brake light - mounted in the center and up high. Any modification must be reversible. I am unwilling to drill holes or cut the fiberglass. I'm hoping somebody here has a slick solution. Something where the wiring is hidden; where the device could be mounted by a spring clip; and, where it could plug into the hidden wiring. I've seen third brake lights mounted on other old cars at car shows. The answer may be that there's no reversible way to do this. But I'm hoping that somebody here has done this, and that they could share their results. (Yes, I'll also be doing LED tail and brake lights.)

[John F.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

I would think the LED tail lights would be plenty. Frankie did a fantastic job with LED's on his old 61.

[Keith B.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

No amount of lights is going to help when someone is looking at there phone. Seriously has rear end collisions declinded since 1986 when third brake lights became mandated.

[Frank D.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

LED brake lights are a must with me (in both cars)....I prefer the ones that are enclosed with the lens and bulb integrated into a weather sealed unit. They react quicker and are much brighter... You may need an electronic flasher but that's no problem.

If it were me and didn't want body modifications I would look for one of those license plate holders that have the LED third light built in. There are even some that strobe briefly with the application of the brakes like motorcycles have. A bit blingy - but safer...no question IMO..

You can buy one complete or "roll your own": http://www.mgexp.com/phorum/read.php?1,1962505

Just requires some simple wiring....

[Bruce B.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

Chris,
There are license plate frames which have a LED light bar which can be used as a third brake light.
There are also a number of LED light bars which can be adapted to early (and late) Corvettes
I do sell C1 & C2 LED tail lights and front LED parking light assemblies if interested contact me.
As Frank D mentioned a LED specific electronic flasher is needed for reliable turn signal operation.
Contact me if interested for great prices.
Bruce B
513 267-3706

[Terry D.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

Chris
I added the led lights and if someone can't see you with them, than no third light is going to help either. Before you go drilling holes, try the led tail lights Bruce has and see what you think. Just my 2 cents

[Mark E.]

Re: Third Brake Light on a C1

I am exploring the same question for a'70.

One option is a license plate frame with leds. Most look like they will cover part of the top or bottom of the plate. One has leds on the sides, but it's too wide to fit.

Another option is mounting a device like the one in the link. It may fit by mounting with double stick tape in the void above the plate, below and behind the plate's light (for a C3).

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CZRYOI4...=1QZE259JCO776

I haven't tried it, so can't confirm its fitment.

Cigarette pack sized devices are available which can be added in the wiring to make the brake light flash then hold.