1966 brake pedal switch capacitor

[Richard E.]

Is the capacitor that is connected across the brake pedal switch necessary to protect the switch contacts from arcing and failing? The capacitor is disconnected in my car and I have had to replace many switches lately. Is there a part number for a heavy duty switch that I should possibly try? Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

[Joe R.]

Re: 1966 brake pedal switch capacitor

I'm pretty sure that the only purpose that GM had in mind for this capacitor was to eliminate the "pop" in the AM radio when the switch is activated. I believe this capacitor was only installed if the car had a radio.

The function of the capacitor will indeed reduce arcing on the switch contacts, so in theory it would extend the life of the switch. My guess is that the original GM switches had rugged enough contacts to survive without help from the capacitor, but perhaps the current replacement switches are less rugged.

[Richard E.]

Re: 1966 brake pedal switch capacitor

Thank you for the respose Joe.