How to replace Brake Light Switch / Stoplamp Switch?

[kz098123]

Hey All,

New ZR-1 owner here as of a couple weeks ago and wanted to try to tackle my first repair... replacing the brake light switch. My car's 4 main lights do not light under braking. Turn signals work. They light up as taillights, but not as brake lights. The CHMSL works fine.

Figured it's worth trying to replace a $13 part myself, but I'm already stumped. (I'm not a mechanic -- be gentle). Searched but didn't find too much on this topic.

First of all, any recommendations on how to remove the black connector? I worked at it by squeezing the top and bottom as hard as I can and wiggling and pulling, but I've worn out my fingers in short time.

The more confusing thing is that I see the switch is threaded into a mount, but I'm not understanding how I'm supposed to unscrew it from the mount. There's no room for the switch to turn in place. Am I supposed to remove the mount first or something? See picture...

Any insight would be appreciated. Thank you!