Diode Dynamics Cabin LED Install

Hi All:

Installed Diode Dynamics Map and Dome LEDS in my 2017 TACO TRD Off Road today. Part number for the map LEDs is 194 HP3. Part number for the dome LED is SMD 12. The dome is a panel array.

So, I used reds because I want to maintain night vision. Bright white interior LEDs (when driving) will wipe out most of your night vision quickly. The drawback is lower interior illumination.

Install was a PAIN. To remove the map light bulbs, I tried scotch tape first, which didn't work. Drove up and got some packing tape, which I then wrapped around the old bulb and twisted tight. It pulled out easily after that. New LEDs went right in, standard contact plug.

The dome light was harder. I have big fingers which made it difficult. Essentially, the old bulb is replaced with a 4 piece "spring piston" contact device. It's only job is to provide contacts for two small wires going to the panel, which is then installed with adhesive backing. That spring piston is a pain. The whole thing came apart while I was installing it. If I had a sodder gun, I would have soddered the wires to the metal end caps which would have made it easier. After I finally got it in, it was "touchy." I positioned it and taped it, but it didn't light the LED panel until firmly secured.

If I did it again, I'd probably replace the dome with a white LED bulb (no panel) and keep the reds up front. Best of both.

 

I like what you did OP, looks really good!

 

Just do the driver map light in red why do you need anything else

 

Oh man, should have read the sticky on LED conversion. Total time to change my dome, 2 maps, 4 vanity, less than 5 minutes with zero damage.

 

right on. I am going to add some red dome light LED's too, but I think I will wire them on a separate circuit so I still have the ability to activate the white LEDS in case I need to find something inside/need better visibility. At night they are super blinding, so having a red would be nice and subtle.

 

if you do this, please write it up!

 

Yeah yeah, a little switch on the dome light itself for white in a second bulb please!!

 

I'm thinking about going 1 step further. Instead of a switch, wire the red/white LEDS into a light sensor. When it's light out, the white LEDS illuminate. When dark, the red lights take over. Still having the ability to light each one though.
Just brainstorming..

 

I was planning to change my driver side vanity lights to red so everything else is white. No one else in my cab wants red

 

So, the back was actually more difficult than the front. I read the thread about the console for the map lights, but a YouTube video using the tape convinced me. Foolishly, I thought any tape would do, but the guy on the video used packing tape and he was right. A 3 inch piece of packing tape, wrapped around at least 1/2 the bulb, then twisted tightly. Just tug and it pulls right out.

I put the red in the back because often when I go camping, I end up having to open my vehicle at night and get something out. 5 minutes inside with bright light and I can't see crap for the next 10 minutes outside, LOL. My dog usually rides shotgun when we are driving, so if I pull over or stop and need to reach over and get something for him, I need light on that side as well.

 

Do you have a bulldog?

 

you know what I want to do, I want to add an LED in the overhead console to cast some light down to the center console/shift area, similar to the LED that's in the cubby for charger

 

My wife's car has these. Little directional LEDS that point down, not overly bright.. but just enough to see something without turning the lights on. I think they consider them "courtesy lights"

 

yes that's it, I had them in my Audi's and Pcar and it's a nice touch to have it. Should be really easy to install and tap into

 

Not now. My dog is an Australian Shepherd. His name is "Bronson."

 

Nice!

 

Wow. We're going to end up with a TRD mesojdm edition. Want me to start sending money soon?

 

^ haha.
My mind just turns thinking of new/better ways to enhance everything.

 

Thought I'd post a follow-up about how the reds are working out. Took the TACO camping for a few days last weekend. Here are a couple of pictures with the interior lit by the LEDs. Have to say, it worked out quite well. I'm happy...