Difficulty: 2 out of 10

Time to install: 2 Hours

In the 80’s when the third brake lights started showing up I thought they were pretty dumb looking. But since they have been around a while I find they do make it easier to tell if the car in front is stopping.

I wanted to update the Bronco II, so I started looking for a 3rd brake light assembly to install on it. I liked the shape of the light on my Astro Van, so I went to the wrecking yard and got this:

First step was to pull the trim off above the door, back window and hatch. I also took the trim off the A-Pillar.

I ran a wire from the green wire on the brake light switch up the A-pillar and back to the rear dome light. There is a wire bundle that runs the whole length that goes to the electric hatch lock and dome light. I used wire ties to secure the wire to that bundle.

This was the hardest part since the headliner backing is very brittle and would break if bent very much.

Next, I marked and drilled the holes for the tabs on the bottom of the light, and for the wires to run through.

I stayed close to the hatch so that the screws and wires would end up in the metal brace that runs across the hatch. I ran a ground to the dome light ground and put it all back together. The light had a foam gasket on it, but I still ran a bead of clear RTV around the holes and mount screws to make sure it didn’t leak.

Before:

After:

About The Author

Jim Oaks is a longtime Ford truck and SUV enthusiast and the founder of The Ranger Station and Bronco II Corral. With decades of hands-on experience, he writes both technical and non-technical articles covering the Ford Bronco II, including mechanical systems, factory engineering, common upgrades, and detailed feature vehicle write-ups.

In addition to technical content, Jim documents Bronco II history, rare factory and aftermarket models, production details, and original Ford marketing materials. His work is based on firsthand experience, original documentation, and long-term involvement in the Ford enthusiast community.

Through his sites, Jim has built comprehensive reference libraries that serve owners, builders, restorers, collectors, and historians, helping preserve the Bronco II’s technical knowledge and historical significance.