Two Electrical Questions

[CaptainVictory]

Hi all. Two quick questions.

1. My brake lights have become intermittent. Before I launch a complete top-to-bottom search for the culprit, are there any likely suspects I should check first?

2. Possibly related: There are four wires -- two red and two black -- that anchor to a plate at the bottom of my steering column (it's a swing-away version). One of the black ones is broken. What are these wires? I can't tell from the manual.

Thanks!

[CaptainVictory]

PS -- My Bird is a 1961 convertible, if that matters.

[Harley Eaton]

First thing to check is the tail light grounds. Replace if necessary. Might be a good idea to replace brake light switch. Not expensive! The "plate" you refer to is the neutral start switch. Two wire allow you to crank the engine (maybe they are OK). Two wires are for the back up lights. Do they come on as they should? I would expect the black wires to come from the fuse box or ignition switch. Be sure and check fuses.

[CaptainVictory]

Harley -- I think you're correct about the back-up lights. They don't come on, so that's probably that.

By the way, you have actually worked on this very car. Black 1961 convertible, red interior, white top. My grandfather owned it and my uncle took care of it. He lives in Flower Mound. We appreciate your help over the years.