I <3 LEDs and hate dash lights

[1loudLX]

My front VW turn signals that came with the ARB were really getting hard to see. Between the reflector inside rusting out, and the bulb getting covered in mud, plus mud buildup between the amber filter and clear outer lens, they just looked sad. Probably wouldnt have passed inspection if Colorado actually DID safety inspections .




SO, I ordered up some amber versions of the turn/brake lights I mounted to my roof rack last year and fabbed a little plate to mount where the ARB signals were to allow mounting of the LED.

They're Whelen TIR3s, specifically designed for emergency/construction/highway vehicles. More than plenty bright.

 

[1loudLX]

Additionally, my Unity spotlight was starting to rust on the inside of the reflector, so I got a Whelen PAR46 LED Spotlight replacement. You may have noticed these on new police cars, as some departments are getting them with their new builds.


When I removed the old light, I realized it was way more rusted than I thought. The new light draws considerably less power than the 100w H3 Halogen that was in there, and puts out about the same light.

 

[Mxndrnks]

They're Whelen TIR3s set to steady-burn. I didnt use the bracket mount that is an option but I did use the optional aluminum flange, mounted to my own brackets which I then bolted to the rack using AO hardware. Whelen Engineering - Lightheads - Lightheads, Directional Strobe, Super-LED®, LED, Halogen & Combination

Which model number of the TIR3s did you order on that page and can you post some more detailed photos (day time) of those lights? I was looking at them at CM11. But, would love some pics. thanks!

 

[1loudLX]

RS*03ZCR are the ones I have. the * gets replaced for the letter of the color. You cant order direct from Whelen, need to order from an online vendor or stop by a local emergency vehicle builder.

Detailed pictures lit up or just close ups?

 

[Mxndrnks]

Thanks! Not lit up. Just the light and mount. Also (if possible) how you ran the wires. I assume you (or if Slee installed them) you tapped into the rear break lights?

 

[1loudLX]

Nope, I did all the wiring. I wired the rear ones on the rack into the trailer wiring so they work as brake/turn signals. I put the ground on a switch so I can turn them off if on the trail at night the guy behind me isn't getting blasted with brake lights. The wiring goes down on both sides of the truck next to the weather strip for the tailgate, and is spliced in at the trailer plug connector.

The front lights I just cut the OEM connectors off the turn signals (the LX has signals in the bumper, not in the parking light like the LC) and put new weatherproof connectors on the truck and lights.

 

[Mxndrnks]

That makes sense! Thanks! I like the switch idea to be able to turn them off.