Handbrake warning light on (dim) when ignition off

[French Collection]

Hi Folks,

Hi Folks,

I have a problem with my handbrake warning light on my LHD, ex-US series 1967 1.5 OTS.

When the ignition is on and the handbrake is on, the light is on as it should be. However, when I switch the ignition off, the light is still glowing slightly.

I have established that there is a round 3V going to it, but I can't figure out why. And why only 3v?

I figured that the problem must be related to a circuit that is live when the ignition is off, which I think means lights or hazard flashers.

The other thing I have noticed is that the 5 way connector block from the indicator switch is 'warm'. So I am wondering if there could be some current leakage through the indicator switch?

I am near the end (I think) of a full restoration. The car has a new loom, new switches Including handbrake switch. I have replaced the 3AW really with an electronic alternative as the ignition warning light was not working. The ignition light now works, though it seems rather dim also.

All the other electrics work correctly, though I haven't fitted the bonnet yet so can't say for sure that the front lights work.

Any ideas?

Brian

[cactusman]

Assuming the wiring is correct there is no link between the indicators or lights and the hand brake warning. The lamp is on an unfused supply with the switch n the ground side. In parallel with the hand brake switch are the float sensors on the brake fluid reservoirs. Could be damp in a switch or brake fluid in a switch. If there is 3 volts present at the lamp then there is 9 volts across something else.

Incidentally connectors should not get hot. Suggests a poor connection.

[abowie]

Check the brake fluid warning circuit.

[French Collection]

Thanks for the pointers. I will check those things.

Brian

[French Collection]

I disconnected the purple wire from the 5 way connector which connects the wires from the indicator switch. This solved my handbrake warning light problem.

This was also causing the connector block to get hot. Obviously a bad connection. I don't really understand why as the 5 way connector was new and no sign of damage, no corrosion, no shorts between any of the connectors.

Anyway, I re-connected the purple to its counterpart form the indicator switch with a single connector. So far, all seems fine.

Thanks again for the responses.

Brian