Brake Light Switch Question

[LexKing]

Saturday I installed a set of mini apes (12") on my son's 2002 XL 1200C. I nearly freaked out when I got it all back together, only to find that I had no rear brake lights. I just new that I had screwed a wire up inside the handle bars, as it turns out, I had two problems. The first was the front lever switch, we all know temperamental those things are. I got that adjusted correctly only to find that the rear switch is bad. There is no telling how long it has been out, I very seldom ever ride behind him.

My question is: Is there any other "in-line" rear brake light switch that will work, other than the Sportster OEM switch? It will be awhile before I am at the HD store, 30 miles away. If I can't find something, I will mail order the OEM switch and have it delivered next week..... TIA

[PC_Hater]

With a bit of bodging one of the cheap old style spring operated switches could be made to fit.
Then you can put off dismantling the rear hydraulics for quite a while!

[LexKing]

Thanks PC that is a thought. I do occasionally ride with a guy that has a motorcycle junk yard. I may give him a call later. It really wouldn't matter what the switch was from, as long as I got the bracket as well. Fabricating the bracket to fit may be another story. 

[PC_Hater]

When I say bodge, I really do mean bodge.
Many of the old-style rear brake light switches you would fit on a BSA or what have you come with a spring that attaches to the brake pedal - usually through a hole that is already there. You could drill the brake pedal but I would use nylon tie-wraps/cable ties!
The other end usually has some sort of clamp that fits a round one of the frame tubes. Again, tie-wraps/cable ties can help.
I found they lasted about 3 years in UK rain and snow.

[War Horse]

PcHater, you sir are a true bodger...

[LexKing]

Thanks for the information. 

I did find that the switch is the same for nearly all HD bikes and costs less than $20 at your local Harley Store. I hope this information helps someone else.