Handbrake switch

peterux · #1 11th June 2006, 22:10

Has anyone got a photo of the BMW handbrake switch on their donor?

I have the switch but cannot remember how it fitted?

It's about the only thing I didn't photograph on my donor!

thanks

Peter

Patrick · #2 11th June 2006, 22:23

Here's a piccy of the switch in place on mine, as far as I remember the wire just connected up to the copper bit. With the handbreak down it breaks the circuit contact (as its grounded through the handbrake)

MartinClan · #3 12th June 2006, 12:24

Does anyone know if the handbrake switch is reqd for the SVA? - I wasn't going to fit one...

peterux · #4 12th June 2006, 20:13

Patrick,

Bingo!

thanks for the help,

Robin,

I just assumed that it was an SVA or MOT requirement, but maybe not??

Peter

Stuart · #5 13th June 2006, 19:29

The handbrake warning switch along with fluid level indicator is a requirement. You have to have a level sensor and warning light & you have to be able to test the light from the drivers seat so the switch on the brake lever is the easiest way for this.

Stuart

MartinClan · #6 14th June 2006, 07:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stuart

The handbrake warning switch along with fluid level indicator is a requirement. You have to have a level sensor and warning light & you have to be able to test the light from the drivers seat so the switch on the brake lever is the easiest way for this.

Stuart

OK Stuart - thanks

Robin

RobDorey · #7 8th May 2007, 15:52

On the subject of warning lights.

I have a copy of the SVA inspection manual and I can't see the requirement for the handbrake switch, but I do see that you need a means of test the fluid level light if fitted. So I agree, the handbrake light is a great way of testing the light.

The thing that is worrying me is in section 16.4d which states;

'Check that the hydraulic system is fitted with a red warning lamp visable from the driving position and capable of signalling the failure of any part of the hydraulic system as soon as the brake is applied and the lamp is lit as long as the failure exists (when the ignigion is on)'.

The only cars that I know had this was Volvos, or does this mean that if fitted the rule applys.

Patrick · #8 8th May 2007, 15:55

My understanding is that you just need a switch in the lid of the reservoir that comes on if the level gets too low - ie no fluid in system failure.

RobDorey · #9 8th May 2007, 16:05

Thats right. Although it does say as long as the level can be checked without removing the cap. So I suppose that a clear reservoir is good.
It's a great pity that this inspection book isn't on-line, but I guess that nobody makes money that way.