Not a smart azz question. What makes the trunk light come on?

I went to replace the bulb and no help. So when I went to remove the assembly the light lit for a few seconds.

So where is the switch for the trunk light

On the '84-'85's and some '86's it's a pin switch next to the driver's side strut tower along the rear trunk wall. On the '86-up it's on the trunk latch on the half that's attached to the decklid.

You may want to check out your trunk lid wiring harness. On my '86 GT a previous owner had done a repair which was likely because of wires cooked by the nearby exhaust manifold. When my trunk light was working similar to yours I discovered the wiring was pooched again, and had to do a major repair job -- not a fun job as previous repair left little wire to connect to. Soldered all my connections and used heat shrinks and tape to ensure good continuity and weatherproofing. Previous repair was done some quick connects and black electrical tape which had come loose and exposed connects to the elements.

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'86 GT 2.8 4spd, a very slow work in progress, but fun to drive

Thanks, had been looking for that switch!!! its on the latch on my 86 - I was like the kid in front of the fridge checking if it really goes off!