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LED bed lights off of Tail lights?

Discussion in 'Lighting' started by Chris24, Jul 1, 2012.

  1. Jul 1, 2012 at 4:02 PM
    #1
    Chris24

    Chris24 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Chris
    Greensboro, NC
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    09 Black DCSB TRD Sport, V6, 6sp
    Hey guys I had a camper shell on my truck that I took off and now I have the loose connector hanging in my bed from the shell lights. My question is, can I tie some LED bed lights into that connector and be alright running from the tail light wires? The lights I am looking at are 12V led strips, and it is a roll that is 15 feet long that I can cut to put them where I want them. Power usage for the full 15 feet is listed as 4W.

    These are the LEDs
    http://www.ebay.com/itm/300678239286?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649
     
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    #1
  2. Jul 1, 2012 at 4:14 PM
    #2
    Large

    Large Red

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    You would need to splice a switch to turn the lights on/off when the headlights come on. You would also need to run your head/tail lights when you wanted them on, IIRC I think when the truck is off and the drive door is open the headlights turn off even when they are in the "on" position on the stalk. You are better off running a fused hot from the battery with a switch.
     
  3. Jul 2, 2012 at 6:11 AM
    #3
    Chris24

    Chris24 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Chris
    Greensboro, NC
    Vehicle:
    09 Black DCSB TRD Sport, V6, 6sp
    Im aware of needing a switch and the operation of the headlights since there was a camper shell on my bed before with an interior light wired through the tails. Basically wondering if the stock wires/fuse will handle the additional current of the led strip
     
  4. Jul 6, 2012 at 9:58 PM
    #4
    PhantomVirus

    PhantomVirus Well-Known Member

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    Ron
    People's Republic of NJ
    Vehicle:
    2012 Super White TRD OffRoad Double Cab
    Don't steal my tailgate Mod, Hardwired Valentine1 Radar Detector, Smitty N-FAB Nerf Bars, Led lights (Maps, overhead & rear License Plate), Debadged, TRD rim center covers, Replaced Chrome Grill with OEM Super White, PlastiDipped Toyota Logo on Grill BLACK, Distinct Offroad Custom light bar
    The current draw would be 0.333 amps for the entire 15' strip

    Watts = Volts X Amps
    4= 12 x A
    A=0.333

    Not an expert but you SHOULD be OK.
     

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