Brake light issue.

[gookies]

Haven't been here for awhile, but I recently picked up an 87' Spree for $200. Was running bad before, bogged down at higher speeds, but was an easy fix (had no air filter installed). Runs great now, but the only problem is that when I use the right brake lever (front), the tail light goes dim, instead of being bright. When I use the left brake lever (rear), it works as it should. I read around that it might be a bad ground somewhere, but those threads had individuals who had problems with it not coming on at all. Mine doesn't come on when the right brake lever is used. Any solutions?

[mousewheels]

Doesn't sound like a ground issue, or both levers would not work correctly. I'm a bit confused - Thread title is "Brake light issue" but your description is talking about a taillight issue.
[quote]Runs great now, but the only problem is that when I use the right brake lever (front), the tail light goes dim, instead of being bright[/quote]

I am assuming you meant 'brake light' in the response:
If the brake light turns on bright with the left lever but dim or not at all with the right lever check the right brake switch.

[gookies]

Sorry, should've said brake light. I was using tail light just to refer to the actual housing.

[mousewheels]

Sorry, should've said brake light. I was using tail light just to refer to the actual housing.

Thanks - Likely suspect is the right brake switch. An easy test is to put a volt meter (red wire) on your Battery + terminal and the other wire on the contact for your stop light filament. If you measure a significant voltage when the right brake lever is pulled, the switch the likely suspect dropping the voltage.

[gookies]

Alright, I'll try to borrow a voltmeter from a friend. Since it's probably the brake switch, where is that located? Is that the part that actually comes into contact when you pull the lever? Would I have to replace the whole right hand side then?

[mousewheels]

The brake switch is a light press fit into the control lever base. You can press it out in the direction indicated in the pic.

Search eBay, there are aftermarket replacements, or ask in Wanted/For Sale for a switch.

Brake_Switch.JPG (49.99 KiB) Viewed 3139 times