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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ LED Brake/Taillight Group Buy

Posted by: Spoke Apr 2 2014, 11:31 PM

This is a group buy of what I have referred to as the 5mm LED rev 2 Brake/Taillight PCB.

These are hand assembled one by one, tested, and will be delivered as they are produced. I have made a list of folks who have shown interest in purchase from my other thread. That list is in the next post.

No need to re-request purchase if you are on the list. I will PM each member in turn. I will not request payment until your PCBs are to be assembled.

The list is in chronological order and purchase requests will be handled in order. Please be patient. If you requested boards in that thread but are not on the list, please PM me and your name will be inserted appropriately.

If you haven't previously requested a purchase and are not on the list in the next post please respond to this thread.

Many folks are familiar with work done to develop LED brake and turnsignal lights from the LED developmental thread. See the last few pages for current info as I've tried several different configurations before arriving at the 5mm rev 2 PCBs.

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=202793

This 5mm rev 2 PCB is available in 3 different configurations:

1) Brake Light: RED LEDs: Price: $90/pair
2) Turnsignal: RED LEDs: Price: $90/pair
3) Turnsignal: AMBER LEDs: Price: $90/pair

Shipping:
CONUS: $10
Outside CONUS: Determined at purchase.

Each pair includes:
2 PCBs with 56 rearward facing 5mm LEDs each.

Turnsignal configuration has 8 extra side-facing LEDs to replace the small side running light. Side LEDs will be AMBER color to match your taillight lens.

Brake: Pigtail with 1157 base to plug directly into existing bulb socket.
Turnsignal: Pigtail with 1156 base (turnsignal) and 5007 base (small side light)

6 clips for each pair to mount the boards to existing taillight housing for plug-n-play installation.

1 year guarantee

Electrical Characteristics:
Brake/Turnsignal: 0.35A @ 14V (4.9Watt) each PCB
Taillight: 0.06A @ 14V (0.8Watt) each PCB

Brake Configuration:

Attached Image


RED Turnsignal Configuration:

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Actual Boards and clips:

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Posted by: Spoke Apr 2 2014, 11:37 PM

This is the list of folks who have requested purchase or shown interest. As best I could determine, this list is in chronological order. If I missed you please PM me.

Starting at the top, I will PM each of you as assembled PCBs are available. Please be patient.

beerchug.gif

Cairo94507
gothspeed
d914
Chris H.
no1uno
Monkeyboy
ruby914
zymurgist
Speeedmster
charliew
Harpo
cconcepcion
Type 47
mrbubblehead
PThompson509
StratPlayer
montoya 73 2.0
mrholland2
synackack
Speedmster
McMark
effutuo101
Jeffs9146
cary
kansas 914
Tomeric914
Zimms
Chads74
FlatIV
Rleog
mikesmith
aharder
SirAndy
ClayPerrine
914coop
sportlicherFahrer
dw914six
smj
barebrad
shawn914
kid914
r_towle
JmuRiz
SJM
Zimms
clapeza
rnellums
JRust
porsche_dreamer
Dec

Posted by: zambezi Apr 3 2014, 09:54 AM

You can add me to the list for a set of the red brakes and a set of the amber turns
Thanks for doing these,
Jim

Posted by: IanS Apr 3 2014, 11:49 AM

I'm in for a set of brakes and red turn signals please. Awesome work Spoke! you got a nice list going there

Posted by: john77 Apr 3 2014, 11:52 AM

Add me for a set of the brake lights and the amber turns too.

Thanks
John

Posted by: r_towle Apr 3 2014, 01:37 PM

I want my oompa loompa NOWWWWW

or at least at Hershey smile.gif

I can wait....no big deal, car wont be on the road for a while.

rich

Posted by: jd74914 Apr 3 2014, 01:58 PM

Those are awesome! Please add me to the list for a set of brakes and red blinkers. Thanks!

Posted by: chads74 Apr 3 2014, 05:15 PM

Can't wait for the PM. I am excited to get these on the car

Posted by: scottb Apr 3 2014, 05:53 PM

if I could get in on this, pair of brake lights and pair of amber turn indicators would be awesome.

thanks

scott

Posted by: Spoke Apr 4 2014, 10:12 PM

One set of Brake Lights and clips.

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One set of Turnsignal Lights and clips. Note 2 bulb bases. The large one replaces the turnsignal light and the small one replaces the side light.

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Posted by: Spoke Apr 4 2014, 10:24 PM

Installation of the brake light.

Remove the bulb and place the bulb base in the socket. Use the base of your finger to insert the bulb base.

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Bulb base connected.

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Coil the excess wire under the board. Make sure the wire doesn't hang out beside the board.

Install the clips on the board; 2 longer clips go toward the inside of the vehicle. Single small clip towards the outside of the vehicle.

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Gently start all three clips. Use a small screwdriver to open the clips if they won't fit over the divider. The clips are brass and very malleable. Go easy on the clips. If they open up too much and are loose, they can be tightened up with needle nose pliers. Again, be gentle with the brass clips. They have enough spring to hold the boards in place.

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Using a screwdriver to open the clips for insertion.

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Work all the clips in at the same time.

Done.

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Posted by: Spoke Apr 4 2014, 10:50 PM

Installation of the Turnsignal lights.

Remove both bulbs and insert the bulb bases into the sockets.

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The outside clip is a bit tricky. It will be inserted to the electrical connector for the small bulb. It may be easier to start with this clip. It will only insert about 3/16 inch or so into the connector but should have a good bit of friction. You may need to support the metal rail with one hand when inserting the clip. Hold the clip on the flat sides. The edges are sharp so don't grasp them by the edges.

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Angle the board down into the base of the reflector and insert the clip into the single board hole. Again be gentle with the clips. They won't break but may bend.

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Outside clip inserted into board.

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Insert the two clips on the other end of the board. Do not install on the divider yet. The outside clip needs to be bent into shape.

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It is important that the board rest upon the divider so the outside clip needs to be bent into place. Gently bend the clip until the board rests upon the divider between the turnsignal and brake lights. The board needs to be close to this divider since the outside of the board barely clears the mounting studs of the lens.

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Insert the inside clips onto the divider and fully seat the clips. The boards needed to be filed a bit on the edges to clear the reflector dividers. If yours doesn't fit, it may need a bit more filing. Each board will be filed before shipping.

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The outside clip may open up a bit at the board so a little pressure with a screwdriver will tighten up the clip if loose.

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Here's how the boards look when installed. The outside edges of the boards stick out a bit from the housing but fit under the lens. This angle is needed so the LEDs point directly to the rear of the car.

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When installing the lens, start with the outside posts. The side LEDs are very close to the posts and every bit of clearance when installing the lens is needed. If the board isn't centered well enough the outside side LED may be bent. It can be easily straightened if it bends.

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And done. If you have good dexterity, this job can be done with the housing on the car. Just take your time and get into a comfortable position when performing the installation.

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Posted by: Rleog Apr 4 2014, 11:40 PM

Should be no questions about this installation. Nicely illustrated.

Posted by: CptTripps Apr 5 2014, 07:44 AM

Well done!

Posted by: Chris H. Apr 5 2014, 09:08 AM

Fantastic! I'll pay you today.

EDIT: All paid up! Thanks again Spoke. beerchug.gif

Posted by: rmdinmd Apr 5 2014, 09:13 AM

add me for one set of brake and red turn signal.


thx

Posted by: Firstcar Apr 5 2014, 03:12 PM

Please add me for a set of brake light and turn signals with RED LEDs. Thanks for doing these - great safety upgrade.
-Scott

Posted by: Seabird Apr 5 2014, 09:00 PM

Please put me down for red brake lights. piratenanner.gif

Posted by: smarens Apr 5 2014, 09:47 PM

I would like a set of brake lights and a set of amber turn signals please, excellent installation instructions biggrin.gif

Posted by: jim dorociak Apr 5 2014, 10:04 PM

Please put me in for brake lights and amber turn signals -- great job developing -- very innovative --jim dorociak

Posted by: peteyd Apr 6 2014, 11:46 AM

I will get a set of the brake and red turn signals also.

thanks for doing this for the community!

Pete

Posted by: Gary Apr 6 2014, 07:01 PM

A pair of brake and a pair of red turn signals please.

Thanks much.

Posted by: Spoke Apr 6 2014, 07:54 PM

Guys thanks for all the support.

I will contact you for payment when your boards are being built. To speed things up I have a buddy at work who will build boards too.

Some comparisons with standard bulbs in daylight at about 25 feet away. Turnsignals:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7A5dOW1Fjs


Brakes in daylight. Brake lights were connected to flasher wire since my wife said sitting in the car hitting the brakes while I shoot the video was "stupid".


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UFYirXKzI4


Turnsignals and Brakes in the dark:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBjzT9Fye3o

Posted by: tomeric914 Apr 6 2014, 08:08 PM

Well done Spoke! Can't wait! cheer.gif

Posted by: lonewolfe Apr 6 2014, 08:13 PM

These LED tail lights are awesome. Do you have plans to do anything with the reverse lights? Mine work but put out so little light they are not helpful other than letting people behind me know that I'm backing up.

Posted by: Spoke Apr 7 2014, 06:56 PM

Experimenting with plastic clips. My colleague is printing these on his 3D printer.

Also will add some heat shrink tubing to the turnsignal end clip so no one cuts themselves on it.

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Posted by: Spoke Apr 7 2014, 07:00 PM

QUOTE(lonewolfe @ Apr 6 2014, 10:13 PM) *

These LED tail lights are awesome. Do you have plans to do anything with the reverse lights? Mine work but put out so little light they are not helpful other than letting people behind me know that I'm backing up.



Someone else asked about the reverse lights. I could do it if there's enough demand. Would have to figure out some attachment method since there's no divider on the one side of the reverse light.

Posted by: monkeyboy Apr 7 2014, 11:25 PM

QUOTE(Spoke @ Apr 7 2014, 06:00 PM) *

QUOTE(lonewolfe @ Apr 6 2014, 10:13 PM) *

These LED tail lights are awesome. Do you have plans to do anything with the reverse lights? Mine work but put out so little light they are not helpful other than letting people behind me know that I'm backing up.



Someone else asked about the reverse lights. I could do it if there's enough demand. Would have to figure out some attachment method since there's no divider on the one side of the reverse light.


Since the reverse lights are simple, I just figured a set of Cree replacement bulbs are fine there. They aren't nearly as important as the taillights. Probably going to do the same with the side warts.

Posted by: lonewolfe Apr 8 2014, 12:57 AM

QUOTE(monkeyboy @ Apr 7 2014, 10:25 PM) *

QUOTE(Spoke @ Apr 7 2014, 06:00 PM) *

QUOTE(lonewolfe @ Apr 6 2014, 10:13 PM) *

These LED tail lights are awesome. Do you have plans to do anything with the reverse lights? Mine work but put out so little light they are not helpful other than letting people behind me know that I'm backing up.



Someone else asked about the reverse lights. I could do it if there's enough demand. Would have to figure out some attachment method since there's no divider on the one side of the reverse light.


Since the reverse lights are simple, I just figured a set of Cree replacement bulbs are fine there. They aren't nearly as important as the taillights. Probably going to do the same with the side warts.


What are Cree's? Is that a brand? I've not heard of them.

Posted by: monkeyboy Apr 8 2014, 08:46 AM

Yes. They are one of the brands that just aren't putting out crap LED replacements.

Can't say I have used these, but these guys use Cree...

http://www.carhidkits.com/1156-7506-cree-r5-5w-led-bulb-led-bulb-brake-light-2-pack-474.html

Posted by: 914forme Apr 20 2014, 06:59 PM

Please add me to the list.

Red Brake lights - go course dry.gif

Amber Turns piratenanner.gif

Soke, thank you for building these.

Posted by: lonewolfe Apr 20 2014, 07:47 PM

I'd like to be added to the list for the red brake lights & amber turn signals.

Thanks,

Mark

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Apr 20 2014, 07:55 PM

I just say this thread and WANT IN. Can I still get in?
Zach

Posted by: Spoke Apr 20 2014, 08:56 PM

QUOTE(Vacca Rabite @ Apr 20 2014, 09:55 PM) *

I just say this thread and WANT IN. Can I still get in?
Zach


Zach, for you, yes we will let you in. Just when is it you will have your car on the road? beerchug.gif

Posted by: Spoke Apr 20 2014, 09:13 PM

We're switching the clips from the brass clips to plastic clips. These work well as they do not scratch the housing and hold the boards very securely. It is likely these will change as we figure out better ways to hold the boards.

Screws are 4x3/8. For the brake lights, the short clip screws to the single hole side and long clips to the 2 hole side. These clips will strip easy so tighten very very lightly and make sure the clips are close to the board as the clips and board are a very tight fit in the housing.

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When putting the brake board in, start the all three clips then push in all together. The screws may need just a little twist. Go easy as these strip easily. Ok if they do strip a bit as there is a lot of friction holding the board in.

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Posted by: Spoke Apr 20 2014, 09:27 PM

For the turnsignal boards, 2 long clips are used on the 2 hole side and one very long clip on the single hole side. Again tighten the screws very lightly.

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The 2 long clips go on the inside of the housing and the longer clip attaches to the bulb reflector.

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With both boards in place, there is very little play between the brake and turnsignal clips and the lens where the parts of the lens are glued together. Care must be taken to make sure the lens fits between the clips. If you have trouble with this, give me a shout and we'll work it out.

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Posted by: Steve Apr 20 2014, 09:46 PM

Is it to late to get added to the list?
If not I will take the red stop and amber turn signals

Thanks!!!

Posted by: palmer_md Apr 21 2014, 12:39 AM

I'm in also. Love the new clips and the side signal LED's. Fantastic product.

Posted by: MATTYLITE Apr 21 2014, 01:05 AM

If this group buy is still being offered I'd like to be put down for a set of red tail lights / amber turn signals. If the group buy has ended, I'd still like a set of red tail lights / amber turn signals.

Any way of having black colored clips printed instead of blue? I have clear tail lights, and I believe the blue would stand out more than necessary..

Posted by: JmuRiz Apr 21 2014, 08:35 AM

Very cool, I'm in for red brakes and turns...but I'll wait until the front sets are ready (to save on shipping biggrin.gif )

Posted by: chads74 Apr 21 2014, 08:36 AM

Spoke can you add me for a set of the red turn signals to go with the brake lights?

Thanks

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Apr 21 2014, 09:35 AM

QUOTE(Spoke @ Apr 20 2014, 09:56 PM) *

QUOTE(Vacca Rabite @ Apr 20 2014, 09:55 PM) *

I just say this thread and WANT IN. Can I still get in?
Zach


Zach, for you, yes we will let you in. Just when is it you will have your car on the road? beerchug.gif

Sweet. Let me know where to send money.
The car will be on the road "one day."
That day is nearer then it was last week. I want to drive it this spring and summer and fall, and then tear it apart again for the next batch of changes...

Posted by: wes Apr 21 2014, 09:56 AM

Very nice, I'd like to get in on the compleat package with red turn signals and backup if possible.

Posted by: Spoke May 7 2014, 08:58 PM

Updated the clips again. The inside turnsignal clips were modified with a slight bend to better fit the contour of the reflector housing. The small clips for the brakes were also changed a bit. The perch of clips were angled an additional 3.5 degrees to better match the board angle.

Also the clips are now in black because black looks cool.

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The boards were updated to fix a few issues with the rev 2 boards. First the rev 2 boards were a bit too long given the thickness of the plastic clips. So the rev 3 boards are now 35mil (0.9mm) shorter.

Also the side facing LEDs on rev 2 interfered with the lens posts. On rev 3 the LEDs are pushed side by side to clear the lens posts.

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Posted by: CptTripps May 7 2014, 09:05 PM

Can I get a new set of clips? Those look a lot better than my brass ones.

Great work!

Posted by: Spoke May 7 2014, 09:44 PM

QUOTE(CptTripps @ May 7 2014, 11:05 PM) *

Can I get a new set of clips? Those look a lot better than my brass ones.

Great work!


Sure thing Doug. I'll try to get them out to you next week.

If anyone who has brass clips and wants the latest plastic clips, just give me a shout and I'll send them to you.

Posted by: dadaDaveed May 7 2014, 10:37 PM

If the group buy is still open, I'm in for a pair of brakes and red turns. Thanks,

-Dave

Posted by: Rleog May 14 2014, 03:46 AM

I watched the development of these boards and was impressed with the attention paid to details involved in getting them to work, then in getting them to fit correctly within the taillight assembly. My boards arrived a couple of days ago so I tried a test fit on my boards with plastic clips.

http://s142.photobucket.com/user/Rleog/media/IMG_0069_zps5a7af010.jpg.html

http://s142.photobucket.com/user/Rleog/media/IMG_0062_zps2e3812ec.jpg.html


The 3D printed plastic clips allow the boards to settle deeply enough to clear the lens.

http://s142.photobucket.com/user/Rleog/media/IMG_0064_zps78a25cf9.jpg.html


While I did not deal with the metal clips, I can add that I had very little difficulty adjusting the plastic clips to get a correct fit.

http://s142.photobucket.com/user/Rleog/media/IMG_0066_zps19fabf5a.jpg.html


http://s142.photobucket.com/user/Rleog/media/IMG_0067_zps61a51c4c.jpg.html

Nicely done, Spoke! Your time and attention to detail is greatly appreciated.

beerchug.gif

Posted by: chads74 May 14 2014, 06:21 AM

I received mine in the mail yesterday, I was so excited I couldn't wait to get them in the car. Turned out to be one of the easiest things I have fiber on the car for a long time. Thanks for making a great product for us.

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Posted by: tomeric914 May 19 2014, 09:40 PM

Bumping this back up to the top. Just installed mine tonight and am ecstatic about them. If you haven't already, BUY SOME NOW. These are incredibly well built, install easily, are a perfect fit and work as advertised! AWESOME job Spoke!

icon_bump.gif

Posted by: chads74 May 20 2014, 11:21 AM

Drove at night again and felt very confident that I was actually seen. Again great job!

Posted by: Cupomeat May 20 2014, 02:46 PM

If this group buy is still Open I want a full set for Red Tailights.

I'll PM you.

Tomeric got his and told me i NEED to get them... aktion035.gif

Posted by: Spoke May 20 2014, 03:27 PM

Glad to hear the good reports. Keep me posted if you run into any difficulties.

The group buy is still open although the name "group buy" is misleading. The only thing bought in groups are PCBs and parts. Each of these boards are made by hand, soldering one LED at a time. (It beats watching DWTS).

I'm working through the list of folks who want the lights. If you've spoke up here I will get to you.

It's been taking about 2 weeks from payment to shipment for a set of boards. I won't ask for payment until I'm ready to build your boards.

Thanks for your support.

Posted by: tomeric914 May 20 2014, 08:19 PM

QUOTE(Cupomeat @ May 20 2014, 03:46 PM) *

Tomeric got his and told me i NEED to get them... aktion035.gif

This isn't a want, this is a MUST buy. Otherwise, you will covet my taillights.

Posted by: Spoke Jun 1 2014, 08:35 PM

A couple of items about the turnsignal LEDs:

ITEM 1.
Has anyone using the turnsignal LEDs have issues with your blinker? I've heard from one person that the blinker doesn't work if the running lights are on.

This makes some sense as with the running lights on, when the blinker turns off, the LED array basically looks like an open circuit because of the steering diodes used to isolate the running light brightness from the turnsignal brightness.

If this is an issue, you may need to install an LED-ready blinker. I tried to search for a thread here that discussed the part-number for the LED-ready blinker but couldn't find it. If anyone can find the thread or the p/n please let me know.

My blinker doesn't seem to suffer from this issue. Here's my car with running lights on and turnsignals on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG8-TevjczE



ITEM 2.
For those of you doing AMBER turnsignals: For running lights I light up the LED array as dimly as possible to simulate the bleed-through of the OEM side marker bulb to the turnsignal lens and to give the car a larger light-footprint at night.

One member doesn't like the amber lens lit up for running lights and disconnected the side marker/LED array from the running lights. Does anyone else want the LED array off for running lights?

For RED turnsignals there should be no issue with the LED array being on for running lights as these are red and not unusual to have red running lights on the rear of the vehicle.

Posted by: CptTripps Jun 2 2014, 05:46 AM

Only issue I have is the lights not blinking. This is likely due to the lower voltage draw, and me needing to use LED relays. The issue I have is that the flasher relays I have int he harness are 2-pole, and the replacement LED relays are 3. Looks like they have a ground on them. I need to work this out with DrEvil before I can expect them to flash. Unless there's a resistor I can use or something.

Posted by: SirAndy Jun 5 2014, 09:39 PM

Finally got around to installing my set. smash.gif


Two things:

- The new bulb sockets are a bitch to get in and turned. I ended up using pliers and completely mangled the thin metal. I hope i never have to take them out again.
In hindsight, i should probably have used some dielectric grease.

- The lights looks great, however, the brightness falls off sharply as soon as you look at them from any kind of angle.
Probably not a problem at night but i can see this being a problem during the day since in most other cars, people sit much higher and if they're close (think commuter traffic) they probably can't see my taillights at all.


I'll have to do some more testing on this ...
idea.gif

Posted by: bulitt Jun 6 2014, 04:06 AM

Apologize for slight hijack-
Looked into replacing the bulbs in my wifes Mercedes E320 with LEDS. Between the need for a resistor, the resultant heat, throwing trouble codes etc. Never did it. I think keeping the bulbs and wiring in a strip of LEDS around the inside of the lens might be something I may try to increase visibility.

Posted by: euro911 Jun 6 2014, 04:54 AM

I remember seeing the development thread, but apparently missed this GB thread confused24.gif

I'm seriously thinking about getting these (with amber turn signals) as the original lighting does lack brilliance idea.gif

I'm subscribed now, so I'll pop back in in the near future. It looks like you've got a good backlog right now anyway.

Awesome 'possum aktion035.gif

Posted by: Spoke Jun 6 2014, 08:32 PM

QUOTE(SirAndy @ Jun 5 2014, 11:39 PM) *

Finally got around to installing my set. smash.gif


Two things:

- The new bulb sockets are a bitch to get in and turned. I ended up using pliers and completely mangled the thin metal. I hope i never have to take them out again.
In hindsight, i should probably have used some dielectric grease.


They can be a little tricky to install as there is not much material to grab onto. I've found putting a finger in the open end of the socket provides enough grip to install. The brake bulb is the most difficult since it is keyed. I'm glad that you didn't use a hammer or drill or other power tool... sawzall-smiley.gif

QUOTE(SirAndy @ Jun 5 2014, 11:39 PM) *

- The lights looks great, however, the brightness falls off sharply as soon as you look at them from any kind of angle.
Probably not a problem at night but i can see this being a problem during the day since in most other cars, people sit much higher and if they're close (think commuter traffic) they probably can't see my taillights at all.


I'll have to do some more testing on this ...
idea.gif


These do have a tight 1/2 power angle of dispersion of 15 degrees. There exists another LED in the same family with a 23 degree 1/2 power angle but it is available in very limited quantities. The stock lens will disperse the light a bit more.

Did you have any issues with the turnsignals not blinking?

Posted by: SirAndy Jun 7 2014, 11:33 AM

QUOTE(Spoke @ Jun 6 2014, 07:32 PM) *
Did you have any issues with the turnsignals not blinking?

Nope, the turn signals works just fine ...
smile.gif

Posted by: smj Jun 9 2014, 01:55 AM

Hey Spoke - panels arrived a while ago, finally got them in this weekend.

Inserting the bulb-bases was indeed problematic. My fingers are either too fat or not fat enough, any progress was due to applying force to the wires within the base. Fortunately things look solid in terms of the epoxy potting in there. Same as Andy the bases wanted to deform when I tried to use any sort of pliers, but they're still intact. I also didn't bother to pull up this thread, so it took me a while to figure out which of the plastic bits to use where, but I'm pretty sure I got that settled. And they seem to be working well, held up to a bumpy drive just fine.

Mine blink... interestingly. One problem might be pre-existing, can't tell yet. A previous owner put slant-nose fenders on the car, and installed CIBIE lights behind the fog/horn grills. It seems like maybe the driver's front turn signal is wired backwards, in terms of the running light vs. indicator lines. If I compare which filaments are lighting under different conditions, it's opposite to the passenger side. So I'll have to revert to bulbs to see if it's a new problem, then check wiring if it's pre-existing.

Anyway in the video I shot, instead of the right turn signals blinking alone, it looks like the hazards are on - though I think the left indicator is going at lower power when that's the case. The left signal is operating at half speed when they're activated...

Leaving that glitch aside until I've got more time, the LEDs look good. Shot a little video, unfortunately from too low - but since this is a 914, I had jack stands handy, so that's what I set the phone on... I've got the amber turns behind red housings at the moment, but expect to be getting amber lenses at some point.

http://youtu.be/yPwv38Xbm88

Posted by: CptTripps Jun 9 2014, 06:19 AM

Mine aren't blinking...just staying "on" all the time. I think I need a different Relay, which I purchased, but haven't put in yet. Now, I have a completely different wiring harness, so you shouldn't let that deter you from buying these. Spoke has an awesome product here.

Posted by: Spoke Jun 9 2014, 03:39 PM

QUOTE(smj @ Jun 9 2014, 03:55 AM) *

Hey Spoke - panels arrived a while ago, finally got them in this weekend.

Inserting the bulb-bases was indeed problematic. My fingers are either too fat or not fat enough, any progress was due to applying force to the wires within the base. Fortunately things look solid in terms of the epoxy potting in there. Same as Andy the bases wanted to deform when I tried to use any sort of pliers, but they're still intact. I also didn't bother to pull up this thread, so it took me a while to figure out which of the plastic bits to use where, but I'm pretty sure I got that settled. And they seem to be working well, held up to a bumpy drive just fine.

Mine blink... interestingly. One problem might be pre-existing, can't tell yet. A previous owner put slant-nose fenders on the car, and installed CIBIE lights behind the fog/horn grills. It seems like maybe the driver's front turn signal is wired backwards, in terms of the running light vs. indicator lines. If I compare which filaments are lighting under different conditions, it's opposite to the passenger side. So I'll have to revert to bulbs to see if it's a new problem, then check wiring if it's pre-existing.

Anyway in the video I shot, instead of the right turn signals blinking alone, it looks like the hazards are on - though I think the left indicator is going at lower power when that's the case. The left signal is operating at half speed when they're activated...

Leaving that glitch aside until I've got more time, the LEDs look good. Shot a little video, unfortunately from too low - but since this is a 914, I had jack stands handy, so that's what I set the phone on... I've got the amber turns behind red housings at the moment, but expect to be getting amber lenses at some point.

http://youtu.be/yPwv38Xbm88


Steve,

It does look like there's some interaction between the 2 sides of your turnsignals. At about 1:00 into your vid both turns flash at a lower power than just the left or hazard. Might be up front as you suspect where the wiring issue is.

The turns flashing at a lower intensity is a sign that the voltage to each light is about 1/2 of what it should be. They're barely brighter than the running light intensity.

Try removing the front bulbs or disconnecting the wires to the front bulbs to see if it heals itself.


Posted by: SirAndy Jun 11 2014, 03:35 PM

One more thing that was brought up in the other thread about the euro lenses.

Currently, with the "euro" version of the LED lights, the blinker portion is always dimly lit as soon as you pull on the light switch (doesn't matter to what position).

That means i now have yellow "running lights" at all times, which is not only illegal in the US, but also in Europe.


We'll see how long it takes for me to get pulled over for this ...
w00t.gif

Posted by: zambezi Jun 11 2014, 08:26 PM

Is there an "at home" remedy to cut the power to the turn signal LED's? I assume they are getting power from the side facing LED group. I think those being lit would be fine, but if we find the whole turn signal board being lit is a problem, is there a simple circuit we can disable to eliminate that function but still have the side LED's lit? Just asking because I installed mine today (even though the car is not yet ready for the road) and am seeing the same as everyone else. I don't have a problem with them yet but I have not used the car yet to see if it caused confusion with other drivers. I don't think any of the LEO's around these parts could care less about the legal issues of the lights, so that is not my concern.

Posted by: Spoke Jun 11 2014, 08:39 PM

QUOTE(SirAndy @ Jun 11 2014, 05:35 PM) *

One more thing that was brought up in the other thread about the euro lenses.

Currently, with the "euro" version of the LED lights, the blinker portion is always dimly lit as soon as you pull on the light switch (doesn't matter to what position).

That means i now have yellow "running lights" at all times, which is not only illegal in the US, but also in Europe.


We'll see how long it takes for me to get pulled over for this ...
w00t.gif


Yeah, that is some good information to have. I wish that thread would have come up before doing the LED boards.

For any further amber turnsignals, the LED array will not be lit up with the running lights, just the side facing LEDs will be lit. They should bleed just a tiny amount towards the rear of the car.

Posted by: Spoke Jun 11 2014, 09:01 PM

QUOTE(zambezi @ Jun 11 2014, 10:26 PM) *

Is there an "at home" remedy to cut the power to the turn signal LED's? I assume they are getting power from the side facing LED group. I think those being lit would be fine, but if we find the whole turn signal board being lit is a problem, is there a simple circuit we can disable to eliminate that function but still have the side LED's lit? Just asking because I installed mine today (even though the car is not yet ready for the road) and am seeing the same as everyone else. I don't have a problem with them yet but I have not used the car yet to see if it caused confusion with other drivers. I don't think any of the LEO's around these parts could care less about the legal issues of the lights, so that is not my concern.


It is pretty simple to disable the amber LED array from the running lights and still have the side facing LEDs. The side facing LEDs alone should bleed very little towards the rear of the car.

See the attached pic for resistor R2. Remove this resistor and the LED array is disabled from lighting with the running lights. R2 is easy to identify as it is smaller in size as the other resistors.

There are 3 basic ways to remove R2:
1) Using 2 solder irons, heat both sides of the resistor and remove. If you have a single wide solder iron, it may be possible to lay the iron so it contacts both sides of the resistor at the same time to remove.

2) If you don't have a solder iron or can't get the resistor removed with a solder iron, you can simply crush the resistor with a pair of pliers. It may seem crude but it will work. The resistor is constructed on an alumina ceramic substrate which will shatter if compressed with a pair of pliers. Needlenose would work best. Just clean up the resistor fragments after breaking it and you're good to go.

3) Ship the boards back to me. You pay shipping to me and I'll pay shipping back. I will reimburse your shipping cost since this was my mistake.

BTW, those with red LEDs should not suffer from this legal infraction as the red running lights will only make the light footprint of the car larger at night.


Attached thumbnail(s)
Attached Image

Posted by: zambezi Jun 11 2014, 09:53 PM

Thanks, now I know how to disable it if I don't want the amber lit. Great product either way though. Thanks again for doing these. I do like them. Now get to work on a solution like this for the front lights.

Posted by: SirAndy Jun 12 2014, 11:19 AM

QUOTE(Spoke @ Jun 11 2014, 08:01 PM) *
It is pretty simple to disable the amber LED array from the running lights and still have the side facing LEDs. The side facing LEDs alone should bleed very little towards the rear of the car.

See the attached pic for resistor R2. Remove this resistor and the LED array is disabled from lighting with the running lights. R2 is easy to identify as it is smaller in size as the other resistors.

There are 3 basic ways to remove R2:
1) Using 2 solder irons, heat both sides of the resistor and remove. If you have a single wide solder iron, it may be possible to lay the iron so it contacts both sides of the resistor at the same time to remove.

2) If you don't have a solder iron or can't get the resistor removed with a solder iron, you can simply crush the resistor with a pair of pliers. It may seem crude but it will work. The resistor is constructed on an alumina ceramic substrate which will shatter if compressed with a pair of pliers. Needlenose would work best. Just clean up the resistor fragments after breaking it and you're good to go.

3) Ship the boards back to me. You pay shipping to me and I'll pay shipping back. I will reimburse your shipping cost since this was my mistake.

BTW, those with red LEDs should not suffer from this legal infraction as the red running lights will only make the light footprint of the car larger at night.


Thanks for the tip on R2. I'll run it as-is for now, but it's good to know i can fix this if i have to ...
smile.gif

Posted by: rmdinmd Jul 5 2014, 08:26 AM

Installed mine yesterday. Took about one hour (yes I am slow biggrin.gif ). Used a pair of needle nose pliers to turn the small side plug-in, fingers didn't seem to want to fit in there, just be gentle. I used a little bit of Dielectric grease on the plugins for both lubrication and corrosion protection purposes.

Attached Image

Everything thing seemed to be working just great with no problems. piratenanner.gif

driving.gif it to see the fireworks last night.

Spoke did a fantastic job with these. smilie_pokal.gif

Posted by: Spoke Jul 5 2014, 10:03 PM

QUOTE(rmdinmd @ Jul 5 2014, 10:26 AM) *

Installed mine yesterday.
Everything thing seemed to be working just great with no problems.



Great to hear Rick. Using the dielectric grease on the bulb sockets is a good idea. I've plugged in various bulbs and LED boards multiple times into the sockets on my car that I don't have issues with plugging these boards in.

Posted by: Spoke Jul 5 2014, 10:06 PM

I've now contacted everyone on this thread who indicated interest in these LED boards.

If you were interested and didn't hear from me, please check your PM inbox or contact me via PM.

Thanks to all who purchased and hope these keep you safe and happy motoring. driving.gif driving-girl.gif flag.gif

Posted by: euro911 Jul 5 2014, 11:19 PM

PM received and Paypal sent biggrin.gif

Posted by: Rleog Jul 6 2014, 01:22 PM

QUOTE(Spoke @ Jul 6 2014, 12:06 AM) *

I've now contacted everyone on this thread who indicated interest in these LED boards.

If you were interested and didn't hear from me, please check your PM inbox or contact me via PM.

Thanks to all who purchased and hope these keep you safe and happy motoring. driving.gif driving-girl.gif flag.gif



pray.gif

And

beerchug.gif

Great job, Spoke.

Posted by: john77 Jul 11 2014, 11:11 PM

Finally my ladylike slender fingers come in handy...

Fitted these today, took me 15 mins - very simple install and the bayonets were a lot easier to put in than I thought they'd be (see previous ladylike finger comment). Overall, very happy with them. Great job Spoke.

Pictures were taken during the day in my parking garage.

Before:
Attached Image

After:
Attached Image

Posted by: eric9144 Jul 13 2014, 09:41 AM

Interested in a set if you are still doing them, PM sent...

Posted by: MATTYLITE Jul 13 2014, 12:16 PM

I'd like a set of Red Driving Lights and a set of Amber Turn Signals too.

Should I PM you?

Posted by: Spoke Jul 19 2014, 07:24 AM

QUOTE(MATTYLITE @ Jul 13 2014, 02:16 PM) *

I'd like a set of Red Driving Lights and a set of Amber Turn Signals too.

Should I PM you?


PM sent. We're on summer vacation now so taking a break until the fall. I will contact you later. Thanks for your interest.

Posted by: dadaDaveed Jul 28 2014, 04:25 PM

Hey Spoke,
I installed my LED's this afternoon… easy as pie. I've only seen them in bright daylight, and I'm very pleased with the improvement. I got a big atta-boy from the wife too. She agreed it's a wise upgrade. Thanks again,

-Dave

Posted by: euro911 Jul 28 2014, 05:01 PM

The Postman delivered mine today smile.gif

Hoping to get them installed soon

Thanks Jerry! beerchug.gif

Posted by: Steve Jul 28 2014, 06:55 PM

I also got mine today, but it will be a couple of weeks before I can try them out.

Posted by: 914Mike Aug 4 2014, 03:54 PM

Just seeing this today. One thing you should consider is to make the side markers Red on the amber turn signal boards.

Worst experience ever is following a US spec 914 with Euro lenses slapped on over the stock bulbs at night. There is not supposed to be any amber/yellow light on the rear of the car, (except for turn signals) and that includes side markers. Just by changing the side LEDs to red you will solve this. I have about 5 red LEDs replacing my little side marker bulb and the effect is great! It lights up the whole amber turn lens red. When the turn signal amber LEDs flash the light goes from dim red to bright yellow and back to dim red. Much better than before.

Like Andy said, it's only a matter of time before someone notices, usually at the worst possible moment, ala Murphy...


Posted by: mikesmith Aug 4 2014, 11:45 PM

Thanks for the R2 advice, just updated mine.

A couple quick notes:

- One of my brake assemblies had the T and B wires backwards (in the plug). Not a difficult fix, but just to let you know you had a QC escape.
- I had one too few of the long brake clips, one too many of the long similar turn signal clips, and three too many screws. (None of these are issues, your sizing of the boards is spot-on so they are snug fit without extra clips).
- Inserting/removing the bayonet adapters is quite easy if you jam a finger of appropriate size into the adapter and pretend you're inserting your finger. Little side guys are a bit difficult if you have big fingers, but I have had mine in and out several times whilst tinkering.
- The extra-long turn signal/marker clips benefit from a dab of silicone adhesive once everything is OK. Not too much, so you can still yank them out, but just enough to stop them from popping off.

Posted by: Spoke Aug 5 2014, 07:18 AM

QUOTE(mikesmith @ Aug 5 2014, 01:45 AM) *

Thanks for the R2 advice, just updated mine.

A couple quick notes:

- One of my brake assemblies had the T and B wires backwards (in the plug). Not a difficult fix, but just to let you know you had a QC escape.
- I had one too few of the long brake clips, one too many of the long similar turn signal clips, and three too many screws. (None of these are issues, your sizing of the boards is spot-on so they are snug fit without extra clips).
- Inserting/removing the bayonet adapters is quite easy if you jam a finger of appropriate size into the adapter and pretend you're inserting your finger. Little side guys are a bit difficult if you have big fingers, but I have had mine in and out several times whilst tinkering.
- The extra-long turn signal/marker clips benefit from a dab of silicone adhesive once everything is OK. Not too much, so you can still yank them out, but just enough to stop them from popping off.


Well that sucks about the wires. I test all of these for functionality but the high/low settings must have slipped by me. Glad you could fix it. PM sent about the clips.

BTW, I enclose a couple of extra screws with every set since these little things have a way of getting lost during assembly and installation.

Posted by: rdauenhauer Aug 5 2014, 09:05 AM

I recall reading this at the start but forgot about it.
VERY NICE. I agree these look to be a must have from just the increased visibility standpoint.
When you are back from your break count me in for a set.
Thx

Posted by: RJMII Apr 16 2015, 11:03 AM

hey Spoke,

are you still making these?

Posted by: Chris H. Apr 16 2015, 01:02 PM

QUOTE(RJMII @ Apr 16 2015, 12:03 PM) *

hey Spoke,

are you still making these?


There's a newer thread:

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=248192&st=100
Hurry if you want some. I think he might be almost done. PM him too.

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