Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1968 Mercury Cougar Brake Lights, 1968 mercury cougar, sequential turn signals

Question
QUESTION: The brake lights on my 68 Cougar are staying on, when the car is on/off.  It's not all the lights across the bar(just four/five of them).  I have plenty of brake, and am about to get a new master cylinder for more pedal b/c I thought maybe it happened whne i began losing the brake pressure.  
Can you point in the right direction or help out?

ANSWER: Is this the sequential lighting system?
Brad

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QUESTION: I believe so yes, because I know i have the sequential turn signals.. but dont know about the brake lights.  could you explain what the problem could be for both non sequential and sequential

Answer
OK, after doing a bit of research it comes down to a defect in the stop light switch or linkage problems that is not letting the pedal all the way back. Go to the stop light switch under the dash and disconnect the wires. If the lights go out you found it. However if it is the sequential system there is a relay in the control box for that system that could keep the lights on. Good Luck.
Brad