[steve]

all lights function EXCEPT the two bulbs that light up for the brake light on drivers side. good bulbs. good connections. everything else works. any clues ?

[Bill Hanlon]

Check the right side rear turn signals and brake lights first to make sure they use the same bulbs, then assuming turn signals use the same two bulbs AND that the left turn signals work correctly, the problem is likely the turn signal switch. If the turn signals and brake lights use different bulbs ignore this post.

Sorry, I can't be more specific, but I can't find an 81 TA wiring diagram on line.

[steve]

bulbs are the same. that's the thing that has me wondering is that the turn signal works and not the brake lights. they are they same bulb different filaments. the turn signal on the steering column is working right so maybe that's it.

[Bill Hanlon]

I doubt (but I've been wrong before,,, today,,, more than once) that brake and turn signal uses different filaments in the SAME bulb. Reason is that all (or at least most) dual filament bulbs have one filament brighter than the other. And I'm still looking for a wiring diagram to verify that brake and turn signal uses the same filament.

[steve]

ah maybe they are the wrong bulbs. they are 1157s I think those have two filaments.

[Bill Hanlon]

1157 is a dual filament bulb. One (used for tail l ight) is a lot dimmer ( 3 candlepower) than the other (used for brake and turn at 32 candlepower). 1157 is the right bulb for a LOT of US cars from early 60s thru I don't know when.

[bhill86]

If the left rear signal works but brake light does not I’d say it’s the turn signal switch. Since, as mentioned above, the rear turn signal and brake light do share the same bulb and filament the turn signal switch has to allow the brake light power to pass through the turn signal switch when the turn signal isn’t activated. Then the turn signal switch interrupts the brake light power and the rear lamp flashes with the turn signal. For whatever reason your turn signal switch isn’t making contact with regard to the brake light circuit when at rest. If that makes sense.

[steve]

well the turn signal switch is a little crunchy is I guess that it. thanks guys.

[Lemans64]

Should check for power at the socket for brake lamp bulb or at bottom of column. no power no worky, might help say yes to turn signal switch.
But does sound like that may be your issue.