Triumph Repair: No Brake lights, brake light switch, fuse box

Question
QUESTION: I purchased a 1980 Spitfire. I want to get it inspected, but noticed that the brake lights do not work. All other lights do. Dont know if this is realted or not, ut the "Brake" light on the instrument panel only lights up for less than a second when I turn the ignition on, then goes off immediately. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

ANSWER: Hi Victor,
First test the brake light socket and bulb. Test the socket with a test light to see if power is getting to the socket. If not go to the brake light switch and test the green w/purple tracer wire when the brakes are applied to see if the switch is working and if no power check the green wire on the switch to see if power is getting to the switch and if not check the fuse in the fuse box. (the fuse with the green wires attached to that post.)
Howard

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Howard,
Thank you for your reply. I checked everything, and it all seems ok. I replaced the bulbs with different ones("eye) shape contacts instead of round) and now the brakes lights are on as soon as the ignition is on, and they DIM?? when I press the pedal? Any ideas? Thanks again

Victor

Answer
Victor, you definitely need to trace the brake light circuit with a test light or a volt meter. You have some wires plugged in wrong and/or a bad ground. Refer to your wiring diagram. Don't forget to test the ground circuit too. If you don't have a diagram let me know and I will put one on my web site that you can go to and copy one.
Howard