John,
I'm referring to the terminals on the strip behind the tail light lens that accepts the 3-terminal socket/lamp assmebly. That appears to be a plastic polymer which has a lower heat-deflection rating than the removeable socket.

"How did the brake light contact work, givent hat it uses the same bulb as the tail light?" I'm not sure what you're asking. The brake lamp has 2 filaments (1157) and the other lamps are single-filament.

I did not have to remove the terminal board. I just pried the sunken terminals upwards using a little hook tool with a sharp point, then prying further with a small screwdriver near the rivet while pushing down on the unsupported end of the terminal.

I suppose it would have been better to remove the board, but I took a shot at the quick way & it worked.
--Phil