I want to replace my tail lights with LED's?

[jaydee]

My old XC has very dull indicators and brake lights. I really don't want to get run up the rear turning right.
I've checked the globes, cleaned the terminals/lenses etc, even replaced the globes, but still no improvement.
So I was wondering if it's possible to rip out the globes and replace with some nice bright LED's of some sort.
Can it be done, anyone have any ideas please?

[Jim Goose]

I have seen LED lights with a bayonet fittings to replace the orginal style bulbs on old cars.

But if they are dull id say there is a deeper issue with the old wiring.
Possibly bad earth or resistance in wires due to old age.

[TheInterceptor]

Sounds like old wiring causing a whole heap of voltage drop.

Id rewire. Unless the lenses themselves are the cause.
Indicators will flash really fast if you install LED since it draws very low power, IE: simulates a blown globe.

If the wiring is fairly new (if youve done a lil resto on it) then disregard.

[GT-E]

You can get LED replacements for all globs and get a low draw flasher can for the indicators. It would be a great mod and make it look more modern with bright lights.

[RSgerry]

just be careful that the bulbs you replace face straight out and dont point downwards as LEDS are directional. The Escort bulbs point down at 45 degrees and LEDs are useless for it, sadly.

[rijruna]

I run LEDs for my rearindictors only as they are the weak link on the rear of my '76F100 lights-wise. 2" sq with the 7 element LED brightness is now enough for the brightest day & the fronts? No need, they are big & at eye level for a sedan. The LEDs came from Jaycar & while not cheap initialy, they soon recoup their price in lifespan compared to regular globes. I've had mine for 2-3 yrs & for the same amount of time mightv had to change out 4-5 globes. So, yep good things & no, even tho I only use the 2 rears there was no change in indicator freq. At all. Just make sure, in-store. The first ones I got had 3 dead elements & so did quite a few in that same box. New, all 7 good elements,,, mmmm. Bright enough to leave a slight taste of what a welding flash is like.
Get them, they are worth your money.
Cheers
Rij

[jaydee]

Originally Posted by Jim Goose

I have seen LED lights with a bayonet fittings to replace the orginal style bulbs on old cars.

But if they are dull id say there is a deeper issue with the old wiring.
Possibly bad earth or resistance in wires due to old age.

You're are spot on the money with this, but re wiring is a job I'd hope to avoid, I hate wiring and electricity.
Good to know I can get some globes, I'll check it out.

[Revolver]

Jaycar electronics had them a few years back. Could start there.