Volvo: 1986 Volvo Brake Lights, volvo 240 dl, brake light switch

Question
Hi Ray,
I just got a 1986 Volvo 240 DL sedan and i just cant figure out why my brake lights arent working. I have changed the fuses (making sure they were copper fuses) and replaced all bulbs. And the brake failure light is stuck on.  All I'm wondering is what or where i can look to find the problem. Thank you very much!

-Josh

Answer
Josh,
You say brake lights not working and then say that the brake failure light is on. Those are two different things. Brake failure means that there is not even pressure at the brake valve setting off the light. For that make sure all the calipers are not stuck, and all the pistons are able to move in and out. No sticking calipers replace the brake valve and bleed the entire system using DOT 4 fluid.
Brake lights fuses and bulbs new, get a test light and see if power flows through the brake light switch when the pedal is pushed.If power does flow test the bulb out relay, see if power gets there via the switch and then see that power exits and flows to the brake lights.