Classic/Antique Car Repair: 73 cuda, double filament, filament bulb

Question
I have a 73' cuda and the brake lights do not come on. This is my first classic car I have owned and need a few pointers on what to try.

Answer
Joshua,
  You need a multimeter or an automotive test light probe.  These are not expensive.  I would opt for the multimeter, you can do so much more with it.  There is likely a contact switch by the brake pedal.  I'm not sure if this model passes a 12VDC signal or a ground, but most likely 12VDC.  Check for voltage there first, it should be live at all times.  Of course check the fuses, the multimeter on the OHMs scale will do this, if you cannot physically see the fuse filament blown.  Next the bulbs (you probably already did that).  Same thing here, you can test for continuity.  Then remove the bulb and depressing the pedal (with a friends help?) check for 12VDC at the bulb sockets, between ground and one of the two contacts of the socket, if it is a double filament bulb (two contacts at base) or just the one contact if otherwise.  Sometimes the problem is not the positive power source (12VDC), but instead a bad return (ground).  Test the socket using the walls of the socket for ground and the other probe on the positive contact point first.  Then find a good spot of bare metal on the body of the car for ground and try the positive contact test again.  This should verify that the ground is or is not the issue.  Try these things first and get back if you are still having issues.

Rick