Both suddenly quit working. Don't think it would be the bulbs. Ironically couple hours before I noticed this my wheel cylinder started leaking. Could this be related in any way? Where should I start? Thanks

Wouldn’t be related, as they are totally independent systems. Two possible places to check, but first a test: do you have rear turn signals, backup lights, and running lights? If no, there’s a connector behind the rear license plate where a trailer wiring connection is made. Check this for wire damage or corrosion - or someone messing with you by unplugging it. If you do have all those lights then it could be your brake switch over the pedal, under the column. Also do a visual check of the wires, and of course the fuses.

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2000 Supercab 3.0 auto RWD

Previous:
2002 Explorer 4.6 Eddie Bauer 4x4
1999 Ranger Supercab 3.0 5-spd RWD
1986 Ranger 2.9 RWD

It turned out to be a blown fuse for the brake pedal position switch. Replaced the fuse and it was fine. Had brake lights turn signals and tail lights. Only light that won't work is the brake light on the cab... now week or so later brake lights out again. Checked the fuse (bpps) blown. Replaced it, and now every time I tap the pedal the fuse blows instantly. Something is obviously shorting it out I don't know where or what. Could the switch be bad? Also we got some rain last night, maybe something getting wet.. Don't know where to dig into

If you don’t have the centre brake light on the cab, and your fuse is popping repeatedly, you likely have a short in that bulb outlet or wiring. The most likely is that water is getting in around the red lens. Check this and reseal the lens, along with the wiring and socket.

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2000 Supercab 3.0 auto RWD

Previous:
2002 Explorer 4.6 Eddie Bauer 4x4
1999 Ranger Supercab 3.0 5-spd RWD
1986 Ranger 2.9 RWD

Will try it. Thanks. Update: replaced the brake pedal position switch. Still popping fuses. Found a bare spot in harness by spare tire. Tapped all the wires and then tapped them all up good and put back in the sleeve and tapped it again. Still not the short. To be continued....

Another update. Is it possible for water to actually get into the cab from the 3rd brake light? I remember shortly after getting the truck having a wet hoodie behind the seat after a rain storm. Figured the sliding window was leaking... maybe it was the light? Well I popped it off just now and it's dry inside, the bulb is good, the seal is dried out and wavy where it should be straight..no rain in 3 days here so it's likely to be dry by now anyways. For shits and giggles I popped a fuse in and pushed the pedal and the brake lights are working. The 3rd brake light still isnt... so I'm thinking it's definitely moisture. But is it that light socket? I found a new cover on partsgeek for 50 bucks but don't know if it's the whole plug assembly with a new socket..

Well today I drove the ranger to auto zone, brake lights were working. Got a new plug and socket for the 3rd brake light cannot find a new lense. Come home fuse is blown. Lights aren't working. Mind you it's still dry hasn't rained yet in 4 days. Im stumped don't have a clue what the problem could be now. Oh and the plug and socket was wrong, naturally, I purchased it at advance. Im about to give up and list this lemon forsale

Electrical problems can be really frustrating. I am sorry you are having these issues.
Replacement 3rd brake lights are all over the place. If you suspect a problem with it, why not get something different (something that you like better than the stock offering)?
Replacing a bad part would be the perfect time to upgrade.
You've already done most of the work, anyway.

For my Ranger (CX Dark Shadow Grey Metallic), I wanted something that blend in better with the cab (until it came on). I got https://www.carid.com/spyder/chrome-...97&url=3316951

It wasn't just plug-n-play, but I figured it out.
This unit (the one I got, anyway) had assembly screws that crashed the sheet metal under the brake light secure grommets, so the unit wouldn't sit flush and seal to the cab. (That is a water intrusion point when the 3rd light doesn't seal.) But when I took the screws out, the unit wouldn't come apart. Those screws must have been there to hold the thing together while the glue set (sonic welding - whatever process sealed it.) I tossed the redundant 3rd light assembly screws and Dremeled down the screw pads. Then the unit fit right. Since installing it, I've had no problems, and that was nearly 4 years ago.

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2007 Dark Shadow Grey (CX) Super Cab 4x2 Ranger Sport (Canada) 3.0L, Manual Transmission, 4.10 open