VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Electrical - 12 volt 54 3100 electrical brake light issues

I suggest that you study this wiring diagram. Based on what I can best determine turn signals were a dealer installed accessory for trucks in 1954. This included adding a second dual filament taillight to the right rear of the bed.

Your latest picture only shows 3 wires in the harness from the steering column. There should be another 3 wire harness going up to the turn signal switch. It has white, pink, and purple wires.

1954 Truck Turn Signals

I am completely confused by the double dual filament tail lights. Until you can trace all the wires to all the filaments I doubt if I can offer much more guidance.

I think what I'll do going forward is rewire where I can, cover/protect it with aftermarket conduits and grommets. What gauge wire is recommended?

The tail lights were wired with 16 gauge wire. This larger wire was used because it was a 6 volt system and it was a relatively long length of wire to the taillights.

If your vehicle is really a 12 volt system and you are not concerned what could happen if someone converts it back to 6 volts, you can use 18 gauge wire.

I would suggest installing new wiring. I would not rely on what you have there.

I 100% agree that new wiring is needed.

I'm down with that! Thanks everyone!!