Harley Front Brake Light Switch Shim: A Simple Solution for Better Braking

As motorcycle enthusiasts, we understand the importance of keeping your Harley Davidson in top condition. One of the most crucial components of your bike’s safety system is the front brake light switch.

If this switch is not functioning properly, it can lead to serious accidents on the road. One common issue that riders face is the front brake lever not activating the brake light. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this problem – the front brake light switch shim.

Understanding the front brake light switch is essential for troubleshooting common issues that arise with this component. The switch is responsible for activating the brake light when the front brake lever is engaged. Over time, the switch can become misaligned or damaged, resulting in the brake light not turning off or not turning on at all. This is where the Harley front brake light switch shim comes in handy.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive repair and replacement guide for the front brake light switch shim. We will also discuss preventive measures and quick fixes to ensure that your Harley Davidson’s front brake light switch remains in top condition. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how the Harley front brake light switch shim works and how to troubleshoot common issues that arise with this component.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

The front brake light switch is a crucial component of your Harley Davidson’s safety system.
The Harley front brake light switch shim is a simple and effective solution to the common issue of the front brake lever not activating the brake light.
Troubleshooting common issues with the front brake light switch and implementing preventive measures can help ensure your bike remains safe on the road.

Understanding the Front Brake Light Switch

As motorcycle enthusiasts, we know how crucial it is to have a properly functioning brake system. The front brake light switch is an essential component of the braking system that ensures the brake light illuminates when the front brake lever is activated. In this section, we will explain the components and functioning of the front brake light switch, as well as its location and installation.

Components and Functioning

The front brake light switch is a mechanical switch with an internal spring. The switch is located inside the right-hand control and is activated by the front brake lever. When the lever is pulled, a flat tab on the lever engages the switch and keeps the contacts in the switch open. When the lever is released, the switch is depressed, and the brake light illuminates.

The switch is designed to ensure that the brake light illuminates when the front brake is applied, providing a visual indication to other drivers that the motorcycle is slowing down or stopping. A malfunctioning switch can cause the brake light to stay on or fail to activate, which can be dangerous.

Location and Installation

The front brake light switch is located inside the right-hand control, which is attached to the handlebar. To access the switch, you will need to remove the right-hand control from the handlebar.

To install a new switch, you will need to align the switch with the brake lever and adjust the switch housing to ensure proper alignment. You may need to use a shim to hold the brake lever contact tab away from the switch during assembly.

It is very important to ensure that the switch is properly aligned and adjusted to ensure proper functioning of the brake light. Improper alignment can cause the switch to malfunction, resulting in a dangerous situation.

In summary, the front brake light switch is a critical component of the braking system that ensures the brake light illuminates when the front brake lever is activated. Understanding the components and functioning of the switch, as well as its location and installation, is essential for maintaining a safe and functional motorcycle.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re experiencing issues with your Harley’s front brake light staying on or not engaging at all, there are a few common problems that could be causing the issue. We’ll go over some of the most common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Switch Misalignment

One common issue is misalignment of the front brake light switch. This can cause the brake light to stay on even when the brake lever is not engaged. To fix this issue, you can try adjusting the switch housing so that the plunger is fully depressed when the brake lever is engaged. You can also try tightening the screws that hold the switch housing in place.

Wire and Contact Issues

Another common issue is loose or damaged wires or contacts. Over time, dirt and grime can accumulate on the switch contacts, impeding proper electrical flow. Check the connections to the brake light switch and ensure they are secure and free from damage. Use a contact cleaner to remove any debris.

Brake Lever Problems

If your brake lever is not engaging the front brake, it could be due to a problem with the lever itself. Check that the lever is not bent or damaged and is properly aligned with the switch housing. You can also try adjusting the brake lever so that it engages the switch when fully depressed.

In summary, troubleshooting common issues with the Harley front brake light switch involves checking for switch misalignment, wire and contact issues, and brake lever problems. By following these steps, you can diagnose and fix the issue with your Harley’s front brake light switch.

Repair and Replacement Guide

If you’re having trouble with your Harley’s front brake light switch, don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to disassemble, test, shim, and replace your front brake light switch.

Disassembly and Testing

Before you can determine if your front brake light switch needs to be replaced or shimmed, you’ll need to disassemble and test it. Start by referring to your Harley’s service manual to locate the front brake light switch. Once you’ve found it, disconnect the wiring feed and remove the pin that holds the switch in place.

Next, use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. When the brake lever is released, the switch should be open and when the brake lever is pulled, the switch should be closed. If the switch fails this test, it will need to be replaced.

Shimming and Replacement

If the switch passes the continuity test, the problem may be that the brake lever is not making proper contact with the switch. This can be fixed by shimming the switch.

To shim the switch, start by removing the switch from the motorcycle. Then, using a small piece of metal or plastic, place it between the brake lever and the switch to hold the lever away from the switch. Reinstall the switch and test the brake light to ensure it is functioning properly.

If shimming the switch does not solve the problem, the switch will need to be replaced. To replace the switch, follow the steps outlined in your Harley’s service manual. This will likely involve splicing the wiring feed and installing a new switch.

Remember, safety is always the top priority when working on your motorcycle. Always refer to your service manual and wear appropriate safety gear when working on your bike.

In conclusion, if you’re experiencing issues with your Harley’s front brake light switch, it is very important to disassemble, test, shim, or replace it as necessary. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to fix the problem and get back on the road in no time.

Preventive Measures and Quick Fixes

As motorcycle enthusiasts, we know how frustrating it can be when the front brake light switch on our Harley starts acting up. Luckily, there are some preventive measures and quick fixes that can help keep your brake light functioning properly.

One quick fix is to use a shim to hold the brake lever contact tab away from the switch during assembly. This can help ensure proper alignment between the master cylinder and switch housing, which is often the cause of brake light issues. As we mentioned earlier, misalignment between these two components can cause the brake light to malfunction. Using a shim can help prevent this misalignment from occurring.

Another preventive measure you can take is to regularly inspect the switch housing for any damage or wear. Over time, the switch housing can become corroded or damaged, which can cause the brake light to malfunction. By inspecting the switch housing regularly, you can catch any issues early on and address them before they become more serious.

If you’re experiencing issues with your brake light, one quick fix you can try is to loosen the handlebar clamp to allow for adjustment. Move the master cylinder and lever to ensure proper alignment with the switch housing. Tighten the clamp and check if the brake light functions correctly. If the issue persists, consider inspecting the switch housing for any damage or wear.

It’s also important to make sure that the front brake switch is properly adjusted. If the switch is too loose, the brake light may not function properly. On the other hand, if the switch is too tight, the brake light may stay on even when the brake lever is released. By properly adjusting the switch, you can help ensure that your brake light functions correctly.

In summary, there are several preventive measures and quick fixes that can help keep your Harley’s front brake light switch functioning properly. By using a Harley front brake light switch shim, inspecting the switch housing, adjusting the switch, and checking the handlebar clamp, you can help prevent issues from occurring and address any issues that do arise in a timely manner.