The LED SAE J583 Fog Pod & Fog Light Review

First is at 20 feet away. 2nd about 10

 

yeah, that doesn't look like it's really washed out when aimed properly. thanks spike

 

Any tips on aiming the SS3 pros since the cutoff isn't as crisp?

 

Aim them as low as they can go. The top of the housing contacts the bezel on the bumper.

 

But that angle is different depending on how far forward or back they are in the mount.

They are angled down based on looking at them on heavy fog from the side, I just want to make sure it's enough.

 

There's a guide on how to adjust here: http://www.ttguide.net/adjustment-1981.html

Since my fogs were misaligned from the factory and didn't serve as a good basis to start, I used this guide and started with the "3 meter" alignment, since the Pro cutoff is much sharper at that distance. I then ballparked the 25' distance. By turning foglights on, and then rotating the headlight switch between low & off, you're able to kinda gauge where they are in relation to each other.

 

Initially I pre set them on the mounting brackets to the max and found interference to the bumper.

Not sure how much room you have on the Tacoma's but I just tinkered with them until they went in.

I've found they can still be shifted after install which helps for final adjustments.

 

Great info, thanks!

 

Merry Xmas ya filthy animals!

 

That is one awesome whrite up. Thanks for taking the time.

 

I've been reading the initial post from 113 regarding the ss3 Fogs. I cant pay for the max so I'm in-between the pro and sport. Regarding the cut-off is the beam on the pro too blinding for oncoming traffic? The pro is $150(canadian doll hairs) more than the sport so trying to figure out if it's worth it.

 

I have the fogs in pros and some ditch lights in sports. The fogs are quite a bit brighter. As far as blinding on-coming traffic, the pros have a good cut-off. Also, aiming the lights is important. I aimed the fogs a little below my low beams. I have never gotten flashed when my fogs are on.

 

I've been very impressed with the cutoff with the DD lights. While the pros are bright, the beam pattern is controlled and have not had any issues using them on the road. Both are great lights, personally I'd go with the pros even though they will cost a few extra doll hairs.

 

I can only speak to the Max’s, but I’d say save up a bit more and buy once cry once. I run them on all the time and I’ve only been flashed once. I was cresting a hill on a 2 lane road and it was just that bad timing spot where I lit up the cab of his car. They’re very bright, but the amber isn’t harsh on your eyes. If you decide to go pros or sports I’m sure you’ll still be very happy.

 

I think you can't go wrong with any of the 3. However, for me, I went with the Sports. They are perfect for what I need them for.

 

i don't really think of it as a matter of "buy once cry once" (more $ means better)in this case. they all serve a purpose. a few post above somewhere was addressing how the pro/max will drown the headlights. this isn't really what you want as it will kill your distance vision.

correct me if im wrong

 

You are correct about the distance vision being affected by the increase in foreground light produced by the pros/max lights.
However, in dense fog or snowy conditions, distance vision isn't really a concern as much as what is directly in front of you and seeing the sides of the road. Like @memario1214 said a few posts back, fog lights aren't necessary at highway speeds because if you can see it in a correctly aimed fog pattern it is already too late to try and stop/avoid it.

If you plan to run your fogs at all times then the sport is the best bet for you @Tuack, pros/max are designed to be ran when fog lights are really necessary (i.e during storms or foggy conditions).

 

ahh thanks for this. im learning more everyday!

im a previous owner of the Rigid SAE fogs and that performed great in our thick fog conditions here driving to the pass. ill be purchasing Sports soon.. finally! i guess pro/max's if you need REALLY need it.

 

From what I understand, fog lights will never aid distance vision no matter the brightness or aim. Purchasing fog lights to augment driving at high speed, therefore, doesn't line up with their designed purpose / intended use.

Driving lights are, however, designed for augmenting high beam distance vision. Driving lights mount high, fog lights mount low.

I used to drive around with fog lights on all the time because increased foreground light gives the impression of improved ability to see at distance, but I believe that is one of those tricks that the mind/eye plays on us. Thanks to crash's lengthy and articulate explanations, I've come to understand how my impulses and intuition are not actually helping me. The proof of his wisdom lies in the night drives I've made with his suggested bulbs, I feel more confident driving because of the actual improvement in distance vision despite being mostly unable to tell much difference in simple before/after comparisons.

Hence, there is zero consequence to the decision of which fog light to purchase in the context of drowning out headlights at highway speed, simple solution, turn them off. In other words, you buy the beef you want to eat, not the beef that pairs well with the wine you ordered.

With all that said, though, it's a legitimate question/concern as to how the max _might_ affect headlights at medium and high speeds. I don't have any personal experience with this yet but am hoping to do my night drive this week and will post my impressions.

 

I'm merely a messenger boy for the lightning gurus that keep us all informed