First post so thanks for having me. I just purchased a 1984 FJ60. I have read a few threads in here with other people having a similar issue but it has gone mostly unanswered so I’m hoping for some help. My hand brake indicator light on the dash dims when the brake is released but does not go out. It also remains on when the hand brake harness is unplugged. We checked the ohms to the brake reservoir wiring and checked the level of the brake fluid. All of those parts tested good. The brake indicator light would slightly dim when I jiggled the float. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Hand Brake Indicator Light Will Not Go Out (4 Viewers)
- Thread starter Fsuriptide
- Start date
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I had this happen on my 1984. I got my alternator rebuilt and it fixed the problem. I’d recommend checking your alternator.
I’ve had the same issue occasionally with my ‘90 4Runner. Taking the master cylinder cover off briefly and then putting it back on has always resolved the problem-the light goes off.
I’ve checked everything to do with my brakes and they’re all good. No leaks, no problems so go figure.
Possibly it was/has been alternator related? I did replace that last year finally after 34 years of OEM service.
I’ve checked everything to do with my brakes and they’re all good. No leaks, no problems so go figure.
Possibly it was/has been alternator related? I did replace that last year finally after 34 years of OEM service.
- Thread starter
- #4
Thanks. We just put a brand new alternator in and getting 12-14 volts.
- Thread starter
- #5
I wish, we just put in a brand new alternator.
I'm having the same issue, and I have questions about how well my alternator is doing, I think the belt squealing is more than just the belt. I get a good read out of my alternator, but it doesn't change that its a possible problem. If thats my issue I'll let you know.
- Thread starter
- #7
Ok, I’ll have to check mine as well
diesellibrarian
SILVER Star
I had the same issue. I spent hours chasing it, but never found the cause. I definitively ruled out the hand brake switch/circuit, so it was something in the charge light circuit that was causing it. My guess is a failed diode, shown directly above the charge warning light in the diagram below and/or between the light and the brake warning light.
From what I understand, when the alternator is charging, it sends 12v on what would normally be the ground for the charge/brake warning light. If the alternator stops charging, that wire instead serves as a ground, and the light turns on. So my guess is that there's a fault to ground somewhere, or some diode isn't doing its job, so the light is always grounded and therefore always on.
My ultimate solution was to remove the bulb.
From what I understand, when the alternator is charging, it sends 12v on what would normally be the ground for the charge/brake warning light. If the alternator stops charging, that wire instead serves as a ground, and the light turns on. So my guess is that there's a fault to ground somewhere, or some diode isn't doing its job, so the light is always grounded and therefore always on.
My ultimate solution was to remove the bulb.
- Thread starter
- #9
Dang, this just might be it. Thank you!!
