Weird Holiday rambler electrical problem

[rvmarc]

I have a weird problem with my HR Admiral (2001) on a workhorse chassis. The brake lights work fine when the running lights are off but are too dim to see when the running lights are on. Also, the brake hydraulic(?) pump comes on when the vehicle is not running, ignition on, and the running lights are turned on. This normally only happens when you depress the brake pedal, while the ignition is on but engine is not running. Not even sure where to start looking at this. Any advise would be great. Also, does anyone know of a Workhorse chassis service center near Conway, NH?

[DAFF]

I would like to put my money on the multi function switch under the steering wheel is worn out or a tab inside has broken off sending current to the incorrect circuits.

[Steve911]

This really sounds like a bad ground. Check the harness to the rear where the grounds are tied to the frame.


2009 HR Endeavor 41SKQ ISL
2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee Toad

[onechaddude]

You haven't recently changed the brake/parking light bulbs have you? Possibly get them backwards in the socket? Parking would be the brightest and stop would be the less bright filament if backwards.

Chad

[41pu]

There several different issues here.
I agree with having a ground issue. Start checking chassis and battery grounds.
They may look clean and tight but still can cause problems.
Take them loose and clean the contact point and the terminal ends.
Good luck.

[Bluelagoon]

Really sounds like a bad ground at the tail lights area.

When brake lights alone are activated, the 12v current needs to pass to ground. When marker lights are on, they are sharing/robbing what little quality of ground connection remains and therefore both sets of all lamps weaken at that point in sharing the poor ground connection reducing current flow.

45 years of mechanic experience, seen this many times before.