LED lights for exterior lights

[secondchance]

First and foremost, it's all Charlie's fault!

Based on discussion between Charlie (Dredge) and Marc over benefit of LED CHMSL, I modified my CHMSL with LED piece for Uplander (and other GM mini vans). All of a sudden, rear brake lights look like row of candles... I thought about going with LED taillights with LEDs embedded behind the lens but for almost $200?!
Upon some research (namely google and ebay) I found out LED replacement bulbs have improved quite a bit in the last 2-3 years.
Below are my selection of turn signal relay, LED bulbs and thoughts behind the selection.
Also, due to difference in shape between conventional bulbs and LEDs all light sockets had to be ground down around outer edge a little bit in order to insert LED bulbs deep enough to turn and engage in the socket:

Turn signal relay:
https://www.amazon.com/Signal-Flasher-Relay-Headlight-Blinkers/dp/B07FM9DZZ6/ref=asc_df_B07FM9DZZ6/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=331942329025&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4539397441413463620&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007779&hvtargid=pla-630571847925&psc=1

There is another version with see-thru cylindrical housing. Cylindrical version fits into spring clip but made ticking sound. I used square box version because it is quieter and seemed to be solid state.
Update: Changing my recommendation to;
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Prong-Electronic-LED-Compatible-Turn-Signal-Flasher-Relay-EF32RL-Round-25-Amp/302562303805?epid=23024292562&hash=item46721e5f3d:g:D6sAAOSw8b1aL30B:sc:Shipping MethodStandard!22102!US!-1

Rectangular version worked fine for tail light conversion. However, further addition of LED side markers and front turn signal started a strange phenomenon of faint chiming while driving. Somehow resistance build up with LEDs seems to have triggered "key in ignition" warning chime. Not loud but certainly there.

Front amber marker and tail/brake lights:
I selected Sylvania Zevo 1157R (for rear) and Zevo 1157 amber (for front marker/turn signal).
Reason for my preference for Zevo is substantial construction and fires LEDs back at 45 degrees to the reflector. This design avoids center hot spots and illuminates tail lenses uniformly. Be sure to get Zevo red for the rear. White will over power the red lenses. Also, be sure to order amber for the fronts.
https://www.amazon.com/SYLVANIA-Bright-Ideal-Lights-Contains/dp/B01A77TV4Q

Front side lights (activated when turn signal is turned on), rear quarter back up lights and back up lights flanking rear license plate:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/AUXITO-2X-40W-White-Reverse-Backup-Lights-Ba15s-P21W-7506-7506L-1156-LED-Bulbs/333071328625?epid=13023765475&hash=item4d8c992571:g:jf4AAOSwoMZcY8c1

Reason for my preference is that these LEDs have clear plastic dome on the top. Resulting light distribution mimics incandescent/halogen bulbs. Also, construction is of good quality compared to some other LED and upper assembly projection beyond metal socket is relatively small resulting in minimal grinding of light socket.

Front side and rear side markers/turn signal:
I found some tiny wedge LEDs in my bulb collection for markers and are working fine. I am still having difficulty nailing down the bulb type. Old GM bulbs are designated #24. Current description seems to be T5 wedge but I am not positive. My understanding is that T5 refers to socket end width being 5 mm. I ordered some with clear plastic domes but seems to be literally on a slow boat from China...

[GOLDCYLON]

If I remember correctly they are T5 I am also using those Sylvania LED for the amber turn signals and DRLs. GC

[Paul Workman]

Here are a couple LED retro bulbs from superbrightleds (https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/tail-brake-turn/filter/Base_Type,1156,1,40:Base_Type,1157,1,41:) that I have installed w/o needing to modify the collar of several sockets.

1156-x3W-G-CAR

1157-x3W-G-CAR

I would recommend these lights as a direct replacement: they install without any fiddling or grinding of stock sockets. (listed with others and a host of options and installation considerations, in my series of LED articles in HOTB.)

[secondchance]

Paul,

Only caution I add is that 1157-x3W-G-CAR will show a hot spot in the middle of the tail light lens.

Are these bulbs white or available in red and amber? Front turn signals seem to be behind clear lenses and if the light source is white will not glow in amber.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Hey Yun! Thanks for sharing as timing is perfect. I was looking at both my interior and exterior lights just the other day, and thought I need to do something. I have the Euro lamps, but I think this should work great too with the correct bulbs. It seems I need 4 - 1157 Red and 4 - 1156 Amber just for the rear. I’ll let you know how it is. Geez, I have quite a few SecondChance mods on my cars!! Thanks again!

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Here are a couple LED retro bulbs from superbrightleds (https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/tail-brake-turn/filter/Base_Type,1156,1,40:Base_Type,1157,1,41:) that I have installed w/o needing to modify the collar of several sockets.



1156-x3W-G-CAR



1157-x3W-G-CAR



I would recommend these lights as a direct replacement: they install without any fiddling or grinding of stock sockets. (listed with others and a host of options and installation considerations, in my series of LED articles in HOTB.)


Thanks too P!! I’m going to check out your articles too!! I want to replace all bulbs to LED.




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[Paul Workman]

Paul,

Only caution I add is that 1157-x3W-G-CAR will show a hot spot in the middle of the tail light lens.

Are these bulbs white or available in red and amber? Front turn signals seem to be behind clear lenses and if the light source is white will not glow in amber.

On my '90, the ONLY places I needed

1156-x3W-G-CAR



1157-x3W-G-CAR

was the turn illumination corner lights. Otherwise the 'tower' LEDs (https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/tail-brake-turn/)fit/work just fine. And, the tower lights come in various colors and brightness (and prices usually commiserate with LUMENS (output)).

Below, excerpted from the article(s) are examples and an illustration (via -=Jeff=-) illustrating why some bulbs design will interfere with the stock socket. HOWEVER, such is NOT ALWAYS THE CASE. Most will fit w/o spending the (double amount) for the retros (referenced above).

AND, if you're intention is to covert all or most of the lights to LEDs, then you will need to be aware of the huge current reduction resulting from most LEDs and the use of LOAD RESISTORS, alternate wiring options, and special LED (rated) flashers* - all discussed in the articles too.

*It's all really simple, once you know what you're dealing with when you retro an incandescent bulb with an LED. In many cases there are NO special considerations - just "plug and play".

[secondchance]

Hey Yun! Thanks for sharing as timing is perfect. I was looking at both my interior and exterior lights just the other day, and thought I need to do something. I have the Euro lamps, but I think this should work great too with the correct bulbs. It seems I need 4 - 1157 Red and 4 - 1156 Amber just for the rear. I’ll let you know how it is. Geez, I have quite a few SecondChance mods on my cars!! Thanks again!

Hey! Hope all have been well with you and your 94 (or was it a 95?).
At least factory tail light sockets did not require any grinding and accepted Sylvania Zevos. I am waiting for amber Zevos for the fronts. I ordered a pair of 1156s instead of 1157s. I ended up with a few useless LEDs since this ended up being trial and error process.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Hey! Hope all have been well with you and your 94 (or was it a 95?).

At least factory tail light sockets did not require any grinding and accepted Sylvania Zevos. I am waiting for amber Zevos for the fronts. I ordered a pair of 1156s instead of 1157s. I ended up with a few useless LEDs since this ended up being trial and error process.


Thanks Yun! All is well with me and the 95. Finally drove it yesterday after a few months in hibernation and beat on it. I have a high idle issue to deal with so I guess good time to get around to install the top end ported parts. I ordered all the bulbs and flasher, but not interior yet. My front had a amber 1157 so ordered the same.

The shop that I used here to get car modded for Japanese specs inspection did a bunch of wire splicing to my turn signals. Not sure what but they still work so I’m not worried about it. I installed side marker LEDs inside my fender gills and I guess he tapped those to make them blink as turn signals too. He was going to yank them off after import inspection, but I like them so left on. Anyway more than you care to know. Thanks again!!




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[secondchance]

Thanks Yun! All is well with me and the 95. Finally drove it yesterday after a few months in hibernation and beat on it. I have a high idle issue to deal with so I guess good time to get around to install the top end ported parts. I ordered all the bulbs and flasher, but not interior yet. My front had a amber 1157 so ordered the same.

The shop that I used here to get car modded for Japanese specs inspection did a bunch of wire splicing to my turn signals. Not sure what but they still work so I’m not worried about it. I installed side marker LEDs inside my fender gills and I guess he tapped those to make them blink as turn signals too. He was going to yank them off after import inspection, but I like them so left on. Anyway more than you care to know. Thanks again!!




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I noticed in Korea (South of course) modifications are strictly forbidden even for cosmetic bs stuff. I suspect general social attitude expecting conformance is responsible for this attitude. Is Japan more accepting of custom mods?

[HAWAIIZR-1]

I noticed in Korea (South of course) modifications are strictly forbidden even for cosmetic bs stuff. I suspect general social attitude expecting conformance is responsible for this attitude. Is Japan more accepting of custom mods?


I had no idea about Korea and strict about mods. I saw even front windshield blacked out tint. [emoji33] Have you ever seen blocks of rubber they glue to the doors in Korea?

It does not seem to be any issues about lighting and all the cars seem to be full LED here. I do know turn signals have to be amber and on the side of the car too. Today I bought this LED 12” strip ($12 US) 92129213for CHMSL mod.



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[secondchance]

Update:
I am changing my recommendation fpr turn signal flasher to below:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Prong-Electronic-LED-Compatible-Turn-Signal-Flasher-Relay-EF32RL-Round-25-Amp/302562303805?epid=23024292562&hash=item46721e5f3d:g:D6sAAOSw8b1aL30B:sc:Shipping MethodStandard!22102!US!-1

Reason being, rectangular version worked fine with tail light LEDs. However, as I started converting side markers, and front turn signal, I started hearing faint chiming sound. Only thing I can think of is build up of resistance in circuits due to LED conversion must be triggering "key in ignition" chime. Strange but definitely there. I went to cylindrical type and chiming stopped.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Update:

I am changing my recommendation fpr turn signal flasher to below:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Prong-Electronic-LED-Compatible-Turn-Signal-Flasher-Relay-EF32RL-Round-25-Amp/302562303805?epid=23024292562&hash=item46721e5f3d:g:D6sAAOSw8b1aL30B:sc:Shipping MethodStandard!22102!US!-1



Reason being, rectangular version worked fine with tail light LEDs. However, as I started converting side markers, and front turn signal, I started hearing faint chiming sound. Only thing I can think of is build up of resistance in circuits due to LED conversion must be triggering "key in ignition" chime. Strange but definitely there. I went to cylindrical type and chiming stopped.


I guess I will have to experiment with mine. I have sequential rear turn signals. In addition, I also have LED side marker/turn signal. Thanks for the update.



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[HAWAIIZR-1]

Hey Yun,
Thanks again for the recommendations. All went well and too easy!! Only the fronts needed a little filing of the white plastic housing corners and otherwise just twist in. I love how the bulbs have a built in twist knob on them. Strangest looking bulbs ever, but they are awesome.

I forgot to order the cornering lamps so those are on the way.

The flasher you recommended works great and no issue on my car. I only did the turn signal flasher and did not have to touch the hazards. No chime and works perfectly. I tested with headlights on too and no issues. I hope the cornering lights don’t trigger an issue when those come in.

Just a note to say thanks again and to tell you and others how it worked out for me since I have Euro lamps.

926892699270


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[secondchance]

Hey Yun,
Thanks again for the recommendations. All went well and too easy!! Only the fronts needed a little filing of the white plastic housing corners and otherwise just twist in. I love how the bulbs have a built in twist knob on them. Strangest looking bulbs ever, but they are awesome.

I forgot to order the cornering lamps so those are on the way.

The flasher you recommended works great and no issue on my car. I only did the turn signal flasher and did not have to touch the hazards. No chime and works perfectly. I tested with headlights on too and no issues. I hope the cornering lights don’t trigger an issue when those come in.

Just a note to say thanks again and to tell you and others how it worked out for me since I have Euro lamps.

926892699270


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I am glad it's working out. LEDs and it's resistance does strange things - especially front turn signals. As long as they blink all good. Mine were blinking too slow so went back to OEM turn signal bulbs at front and ordered an "adjustable" electronic blinker. I haven't had a chance to try it out.

More importantly, thinking along electric and possibly adapting Spal fans this summer, to make sure I have enough juice I bought a billet 200A alternator. When Jim returns, we are going to measure voltage drops at radiator fan, HVAC fan and take the same measurement after installing 200A alternator. Alternator (along with additional wiring to take advantage of higher output) alone may result in faster rad fan speed. We shall see!
https://i658.photobucket.com/albums/uu303/byongyun/Alt_zpsna4jo3f5.jpg (https://s658.photobucket.com/user/byongyun/media/Alt_zpsna4jo3f5.jpg.html)

P.S. Blame it on the mouse (or the squirrel) that mistook my ignition wires to be corn on the cob.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

I am glad it's working out. LEDs and it's resistance does strange things - especially front turn signals. As long as they blink all good. Mine were blinking too slow so went back to OEM turn signal bulbs at front and ordered an "adjustable" electronic blinker. I haven't had a chance to try it out.



More importantly, thinking along electric and possibly adapting Spal fans this summer, to make sure I have enough juice I bought a billet 200A alternator. When Jim returns, we are going to measure voltage drops at radiator fan, HVAC fan and take the same measurement after installing 200A alternator. Alternator (along with additional wiring to take advantage of higher output) alone may result in faster rad fan speed. We shall see!

https://i658.photobucket.com/albums/uu303/byongyun/Alt_zpsna4jo3f5.jpg (https://s658.photobucket.com/user/byongyun/media/Alt_zpsna4jo3f5.jpg.html)



P.S. Blame it on the mouse (or the squirrel) that mistook my ignition wires to be corn on the cob.


Hey Yun,

Yes, I see what you mean about the LED and each situation will be different and maybe even with the selection of bulbs as you found with flashers. I do have an issue with my Euro wiring harness and the one bulb not locking in the low grade socket used. Some cheap Camaro application and not OEM so working to replace all.

You might blame the mouse, but I’m blaming you!!! 🤣 Now I want one of those billet alternators!! I’m trying to stop spending and saving to retire so you’re not helping me here. That looks and sounds good! I thought about the Spal fans after reading Daryll’s post awhile back. Summers can be brutal here and the traffic can be backed up for miles during touring.

Thanks again for sharing. A lot of good stuff going on, but not everyone shares so it’s greatly appreciated!!!



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[secondchance]

Hey Yun,

Yes, I see what you mean about the LED and each situation will be different and maybe even with the selection of bulbs as you found with flashers. I do have an issue with my Euro wiring harness and the one bulb not locking in the low grade socket used. Some cheap Camaro application and not OEM so working to replace all.

You might blame the mouse, but I’m blaming you!!! 🤣 Now I want one of those billet alternators!! I’m trying to stop spending and saving to retire so you’re not helping me here. That looks and sounds good! I thought about the Spal fans after reading Daryll’s post awhile back. Summers can be brutal here and the traffic can be backed up for miles during touring.

Thanks again for sharing. A lot of good stuff going on, but not everyone shares so it’s greatly appreciated!!!



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Craig,

When I complete the alternator install along with before and after data, I will post what we find.
Living in the WAZOO land is fabulous and brutal. :cheers:

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Craig,



When I complete the alternator install along with before and after data, I will post what we find.

Living in the WAZOO land is fabulous and brutal. :cheers:


Hey Yun,
Thanks and looking forward to it. Tomorrow I’ll finally get started on the Wilwood brakes I learned about from you a few years ago. Installed the front last year and doing the rears now. I still don’t know about Mr. Parker, but it will all make sense once I mess with it. Awesome Band of Brothers in WAZOO!!!



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[secondchance]

Hey Yun,
Thanks and looking forward to it. Tomorrow I’ll finally get started on the Wilwood brakes I learned about from you a few years ago. Installed the front last year and doing the rears now. I still don’t know about Mr. Parker, but it will all make sense once I mess with it. Awesome Band of Brothers in WAZOO!!!



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Wilwoods are great! Finally they make a complete kit with parking brakes for our rear.
https://www.wilwood.com/BrakeKits/BrakeKitsProdRear?itemno=140-14883-DR&year=1995&make=Chevrolet&model=Corvette&option=C-4+w%2f+HD+Brake+Option+13%22+Front+Rotor

Woops! Did I just make you spend some mo'?!

[dredgeguy]

Marc has some data from mine when he put in the new DeWitt fan assembly, the 200 amp alternator and LED brake lights. Following is what he sent me:
Engine cooling and AC performance was improved in four ways.
1) A DeWitts/Spal cooling fan assembly was installed. The fan assembly draws air over 100% of the radiator rather than 92% with the OE fan assembly. The Spal fan assembly weights five pounds less than the OE fan assembly.
2) The alternator was upgraded from OE 124 amps to PowerMaster 200 amps to increase the system voltage. This runs the coolant and AC fans faster.
3) The power output cable from the alternator was doubled in current capacity to reduce voltage drop. The power cable for the AC blower was doubled in current capacity.
4) The brake light current was reduced from 11.2 amps to 1.5 amps to increase the system voltage .2 volt with the brakes applied.
I can tell you that having the extra power to the AC blower makes a world of difference. You can feel the extra air flow. Marc tested the air flow before and after and said the air flow at the center vent has improved from 10 mph to 14 mph. This is an increase of 30%. Still have to evaluate this summer but I believe this is the solution to our marginal cooling capabilities, and sure I will be very comfortable this summer with the AC on.

[secondchance]

Marc has some data from mine when he put in the new DeWitt fan assembly, the 200 amp alternator and LED brake lights. Following is what he sent me:
Engine cooling and AC performance was improved in four ways.
1) A DeWitts/Spal cooling fan assembly was installed. The fan assembly draws air over 100% of the radiator rather than 92% with the OE fan assembly. The Spal fan assembly weights five pounds less than the OE fan assembly.
2) The alternator was upgraded from OE 124 amps to PowerMaster 200 amps to increase the system voltage. This runs the coolant and AC fans faster.
3) The power output cable from the alternator was doubled in current capacity to reduce voltage drop. The power cable for the AC blower was doubled in current capacity.
4) The brake light current was reduced from 11.2 amps to 1.5 amps to increase the system voltage .2 volt with the brakes applied.
I can tell you that having the extra power to the AC blower makes a world of difference. You can feel the extra air flow. Marc tested the air flow before and after and said the air flow at the center vent has improved from 10 mph to 14 mph. This is an increase of 30%. Still have to evaluate this summer but I believe this is the solution to our marginal cooling capabilities, and sure I will be very comfortable this summer with the AC on.

Thanks Charlie!
This is some cool stuff - pun intended.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Wilwoods are great! Finally they make a complete kit with parking brakes for our rear.

https://www.wilwood.com/BrakeKits/BrakeKitsProdRear?itemno=140-14883-DR&year=1995&make=Chevrolet&model=Corvette&option=C-4+w%2f+HD+Brake+Option+13%22+Front+Rotor



Woops! Did I just make you spend some mo'?!


Ha, ha!!! I bought the Revolution kits in 2015 and never installed until now so I’m stuck with it. The good thing is I probably can’t get it shipped to me now so good thing I have something.

This new Wilwood looks awesome and much better than the Revolution solution back then.



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[HAWAIIZR-1]

Marc has some data from mine when he put in the new DeWitt fan assembly, the 200 amp alternator and LED brake lights. Following is what he sent me:

Engine cooling and AC performance was improved in four ways.

1) A DeWitts/Spal cooling fan assembly was installed. The fan assembly draws air over 100% of the radiator rather than 92% with the OE fan assembly. The Spal fan assembly weights five pounds less than the OE fan assembly.

2) The alternator was upgraded from OE 124 amps to PowerMaster 200 amps to increase the system voltage. This runs the coolant and AC fans faster.

3) The power output cable from the alternator was doubled in current capacity to reduce voltage drop. The power cable for the AC blower was doubled in current capacity.

4) The brake light current was reduced from 11.2 amps to 1.5 amps to increase the system voltage .2 volt with the brakes applied.

I can tell you that having the extra power to the AC blower makes a world of difference. You can feel the extra air flow. Marc tested the air flow before and after and said the air flow at the center vent has improved from 10 mph to 14 mph. This is an increase of 30%. Still have to evaluate this summer but I believe this is the solution to our marginal cooling capabilities, and sure I will be very comfortable this summer with the AC on.


Blame it on Charlie is right!!! You WAZOO guys are killing me. I have to stop looking at the Registry and remove the app from my phone. I’m trying to retire!!!!! Seriously, thanks for sharing this.......now I have other stuff to consider. I still haven’t installed my headers, Z06 cats, DRM coilovers, Banski suspension, or Kenwood Apple Play deck with front/rear cameras, and ported top end.All sitting in the shelf!!! I know; get off my arse and just do it!!!



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[secondchance]

Ha, ha!!! I bought the Revolution kits in 2015 and never installed until now so I’m stuck with it. The good thing is I probably can’t get it shipped to me now so good thing I have something.

This new Wilwood looks awesome and much better than the Revolution solution back then.



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I’m running revolution rear brakes too. And they are fine with mr. Parker parking brakes.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

I’m running revolution rear brakes too. And they are fine with mr. Parker parking brakes.


I bought mine after seeing your post many years ago. Thanks again for the info and drawing for Mr. Parker install. I’ll have to take the bracket to the auto hobby shop on base. I still don’t have a welder yet.



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[secondchance]

I bought mine after seeing your post many years ago. Thanks again for the info and drawing for Mr. Parker install. I’ll have to take the bracket to the auto hobby shop on base. I still don’t have a welder yet.



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Last time I stopped by Phil’s to drop off fuel pressure regulator to be modified he was showing off his new welder!
Know what I mean about WAZOO?!

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Last time I stopped by Phil’s to drop off fuel pressure regulator to be modified he was showing off his new welder!

Know what I mean about WAZOO?!



That’s it! I am moving to the Washington metropolitan area. 🤣


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