I've got the switch, but haven't gotten it installed yet. First thing I need is a little warmer temperature. Then I need help with holding down the brake pedal while I install the switch and right now we're not allowing anyone to come to our house. I couldn't figure out a way to hold it down by myself. There's not a lot of room under there for maneuvering. Other than that though, it is a really simple job to do.

Once I get it done, I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for your help thus far.

 

How far do you need to depress the brake pedal? Just an inch or so? Consider something like this:



I've got a homemade version and it is very handy. It's mostly intended for the gas pedal, but I've used it to apply light pressure on the brake pedal, too. Heck, you could make a rudimentary fixed-length version from an old broomstick or piece of 1x2. Cut a notch on one end so it can grip the steering wheel. Put your foot on the corner of the pedal, press it down, and fit the stick in place. Don't let it apply too much pressure against the steering wheel, but if only going about an inch or so, it should be good.

Try cycling the brake pedal a few times with the engine off. This bleeds off the vacuum from the power brake booster. This may give you a little bit more travel before the resistance firms up.

 

Thanks for that tool tip. I'm too lazy to make one so I ordered it. I've got another vehicle I can use it on at tune-up time. (That's how I justify buying a "one time" use tool)

 

I use a telescoping 'hood-prop' to hold the brake pedal ON.
I put it on the front of the seat and extend it till it pushes the pedal.
(turn the auto seat to OFF so it does not move the seat!!)

 

Success!! Amazon wasn't going to ship the tool until April 21 so I improvised. I used my head. Yep, I actually used my head to push the brake pedal as far down as it would go with the engine running. The new switch slid right in, wiring connection reestablished and I released the pedal to let it contact the switch to set its position. Slid my fat self out from under the steering wheel, put my foot on the brake and easily shifted to reverse.

Thank you everyone that replied to my post and offered suggestions. Hopefully I will be able to return the favor to someone else in the future.
Actually these two folks should be sharing their beer at a safer distance, I suppose.