I wouldn't disconnect the brake light because of safety reasons. Especially if you are riding in the woods, limited sight distance.

Go to you local auto parts store and just but a clamp on 12 VDC light and clamp it to his grab bar. That way you could get and amber or marine style green light, that is different than the red brake light. Wire it into the ignition or just to a toggle switch if you like.

As for skid plates, either go to your local plastic store and get a piece of 1/8" - 3/16" UHMW and cut out a skid plate with your jigsaw or contact Todd Petchnic and he can get you one from Dead Bat Skidplates.