DIY: Amber DRLs/Signals Mod

A few TW members contacted me and requested a write up for the Amber DRL/Signal Mod like it came with the 2nd Gen. So here it is:

Explaination of Mod: Use the signal light locations in the headlights as always-on DRLs. When the signal stalk is triggered, DRL will be deactivated and signal will override. Once the signal stalk returns to neutral, DRL will be ON again.

Briefing: Use an ignition power source to run the daytime running lights. Signals and Emergency will trigger the 5 pin relay for blinking.

Alternative 1: You can use the aftermarket switch back module for this mod but it costs a bit. From what I heard you can also use Toyota OEM module came with the second gen for this mod.

Alternative 2: You can use the "always-closed" 3 pins relay but those are harder to find and more expensive.

A: Accessories:

1. Optional: (1) pair of 7440 amber LEDs. This one works pretty good.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/JDM-ASTAR-7440NA-Super-Amber-Yellow-LED-Turn-Signal-Blinker-Parking-Lights-Bulbs/331909043630?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

2. Required: (1) pair of load resistors to prevent hyper flashing.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/JDM-ASTAR-2x-7440-T20-LED-Decoder-Warning-Canceller-Error-Free-Anti-Hyper-Flash/331419649536?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

3. Required: (1) pair of 5 pins relay, this is what I used:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/QTY1-CAR-RELAY-1-5-PIN-SOCKET-12V-VOLT-DC-40A-WEATHERPROOF-WATERPROOF-SPDT/272543681722?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649

4. Various wire extensions. I have few leftover sets wire harnesses from an HID installation so I cut it up and use the fuse that came with it. You don't have to go spend money on this but if you have to, I recommend a set of quality relay harness from Xenondepot or Morimoto. Don't cheap out with those ebay junks.

B: Tools:
1. wire striper
2. solder gun
3. Electrical tape
4. a pair of wire sniper, pliers.
5. Philip screwdriver
6. 10mm socket
7. zip ties.

C: Installation:

Follow the circuit diagram below for wiring. Zip tie all loose wires securely. Make sure you have good ground contacts.





The result:

 

Nice Job...

 

AMBER DRL FTW. Nice job OP.

 

cool idea...but here amber DRL are illegal and front signals have to be amber.
Although its not usually enforced as I see plenty with white signals but still.

 

I think I am going to do this, but I think I am going to do white rather than amber to match the oem drl's.

Will this work with a switch back so the drl's are white and then the signal is amber?

 

Nice mod, I like the look

 

I guess the first challenge is to find somebody making those dual LEDs in 7440 or 7443. I'm sure it out there

 

Amber DRL's are not illegal, in Canada the DRL systems can be White, Amber or Yellow.

 

A quick google search shows some are available in the $45 range so not too bad. I think the Vled switch back does all the same you are doing, but making the cost 400% more lol

 

hmm interesting. I know a few years back going to the track for a track day MTO would set up ride checks and one of my friends got a ticket for having amber DRLs.
Guess it was just a bullshit ticket then.

 

Yea further down on there it does talk about DRL's being allowed with the use of a signal light as well. The section on DRL is couple pages long.

 

In order to get the DRL signal for 87a pin on the relay, did you have to cut and resolder/crimp the turn signals onto 87a pin?

I'm attempting to start on this amazing mod and trying to see if there is an alternative to cutting any wires. Going for the clean look under the hood.

So far I plan on using an add a circuit on the hazard light fuse in the cabin to set off the switch in the relay for pin 86. For the constant ignition source pin 30 I plan on doing the same add a circuit with the DRL fuse. So the LED DRL will always be on with the new amber DRL.

 

I knew somebody actually read the write-up . BTW congrats on your first post.

The load resistor set you get off of the link came with the 7440/7443 sockets and butts. Splice these off and use them instead of cutting into your factory wires. The socket goes into the lamp, the butt mates up with the factory harness with the resistors intact.

 

My amber driving lights

 

ADAM -

You need to check that schematic again. If the drawing shows the turn signal relays in the "OFF" position, Then no voltage is applied to the LEDs when they are turned on. When the DRL relay is operated, nothing will happen either.

- JAMES

 

I was just seeing that.... Let me re-post it again.

 

Electrical nerd...We've got an electrical nerd here!!!

 

I can update the front page (with credit given) so people doesn't have to dig all the way back here to find it.

 

Not yet! My schematic skills are terrible. I have to redo it....

 

And your point is ... ??? Everything on today's trucks is computer controlled. A knowledge of electronics is essential to being able to maintain a vehicle today, and to be able to modify the electronics to make it better. I'm an electrical "nerd" and proud of it. And ... I'm certain I know more about my truck than you ever dreamed of.

- JAMES