High-mounted stop lamp from 80-series (1 Viewer)

[SteveH]

Found an FZJ-80 stop light (center mounted) in a junkyard. Fits a 60 series about 98% perfectly. I ran a wire up from the left taillight, tapped into the trailer converter 'stop' wire (so it won't blink with turn signals) and ran the wire out through the D pillar vent and along the hatch opening. I soldered it to the leads from the 80-series light quick disconnect.

The light set consists of 3 pieces - a steel bar that was bolted to the 80-series hatch, which I attached with double-sided 3M foam trim tape. I then bolted the light itself to the plate and snapped on the black light cover.

Works great, super bright, OEM appearance, and there's no light splash-back at night in the rear view mirror.

I'm hoping this catches the attention of some latte-swilling, texting dolt behind me before he plows into me. Will also be helpful when trailer brake lights get flaky.

Steve

 

[Randy88FJ62]

So the light is held in place by trim tape?

 

[SteveH]

Yes. I could drill the upper hatch and install screws (as was done on the 80 series), but I figured that a foot of 3M trim tape would offer enough 'stick'. If it falls off next summer on a hot day, I will reattach with screws.

Primarily, I wasn't sure it would look/work as well as I wanted, so drilling was my last choice.

 

[Telly]

Hey SteveH, great idea! I plan to do this on my 87 FJ60. How is the trim tape holding up over the last 1.5 years?

 

[KWalkerM]

I should do this. I have a spare 80 third brake light in case my 80s goes out

 

[SteveH]

Holding rock solid - I'm always happy when the 3rd brake light is not dangling from the wire in my rear view mirror. What I really like is that there is no light leakage at night, so when you're in a dark area with your foot on the brake, you don't see a glow in the back of the truck. It truly looks/works like OEM. I also have not been rear ended yet