How to Install a Stop Light Switch on a 1996 S-10

The 1996 Chevy S-10 has three engine options. The choices were a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder making 118 horsepower, a 4.3-liter V-6 making 165 horsepower, and a high-output 4.3-liter V-6 with 195 horsepower. The stop light switch on a 1996 S-10 is a tubular plastic on-and-off switch located on a fixed bracket at the top of the brake pedal arm. When the pedal is released, the arm presses on the switch, holding it in the open circuit position. As the pedal is depressed, the arm moves away from the switch allowing the button to extend, creating a closed circuit and activating the brake lights.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the electrical connector on the back of the switch by squeezing the rear of the connector and pulling it off.

2

Loosen the lock nut on the front of the switch between the bracket and brake pedal arm, using a wrench. Spin the lock nut off the remainder of the way with your fingers. Pull the switch out of the bracket toward the rear of the truck.

3

Remove the lock nut closest to the tip of the switch. Insert the brake light switch through the hole in the mounting bracket and spin the lock nut on the pedal side of the switch.

4

Adjust the switch by turning the lock nuts (one on each side of the bracket) to move the switch toward the brake pedal arm. The brake light switch tip must be moved forward enough so that the brake pedal arm -- in its "at rest" position -- is depressing the button on the switch. Turn the lock nuts by hand until both lock nuts are against the both sides of the bracket. As these lock nuts are tightened they will hold the switch tightly in place. When the switch is against the brake pedal arm, tighten both nuts with the wrench.

5

Plug the electrical connector into the back of the switch.

6

Test the on and off operation of the switch, and adjust as necessary.