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A different approach to ditch lights

Discussion in 'Lighting' started by MSU Taco, Dec 29, 2016.

  1. Dec 29, 2016 at 7:33 AM
    #1
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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    IMG_2648.jpg I've been kicking around some thoughts on a more theft preventative approach to ditch lights on a 2nd gen. I don't have these lights nor a spare mirror to experiment with but was curious as to whether or not any of you guy had tried something like this. My thought is recessing a light like the rigid one in the pic into the mirrors. Obviously the 2 main concerns are a) is there room for it to fit behind the glass and b) will a light like this be bright enough to serve that purpose. This particular light claims near 1500 lumens. Interested in you guys thoughts. Especially if you have attempted a mod similar to this
     
  2. Dec 29, 2016 at 7:38 AM
    #2
    Bennett707

    Bennett707 Station707

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    @Blackdawg is the only member i know that has done mirror lights, but he's a 1st gen.

    may be able to attest to what kind of lights and usefulness though
     
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  3. Dec 29, 2016 at 7:43 AM
    #3
    ChemDawg

    ChemDawg Well-Known Member

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    I don't have the same theif issues.
    And already got ditch lights.. but I'd still like to do this mirror light mod.
    No doubt will be the only $ rigid light on my truck because ill want a reliable light if I end up cutting into mirrors.
     
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  4. Dec 29, 2016 at 7:47 AM
    #4
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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    Exactly. I wouldn't butcher a mirror for a Cheap-O light
     
  5. Dec 29, 2016 at 9:34 AM
    #5
    Blackdawg

    Blackdawg Dr. Frankenstein

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    Problem with 2nd gen mirrors is they are power mirrors. So you are limited to mounting depth. And they are fix position. Which may not be a big deal, I like that I can move mine on my manual mirrors.

    I did a write up on mine.

    https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-side-mirror-lights.248168/

    You'll want the slimmest light you can find. Should be do able if you have then time and mirrors to cut up. Should be easy to route power.

    I love them. Better then ditch lights as they are wider and more angled then ditch lights. They light up exactly where you look when you want to turn.

    Mine also aren't super duper bright. So I can use them around town and on tight trails so they don't reflect back and blind me a lot either.
     
    GHOST SHIP and MSU Taco[OP] like this.
  6. Dec 29, 2016 at 9:50 AM
    #6
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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    The advantage I technically have is that my power mirrors have ceased to function. It's also a function I would rarely if ever use to begin with. Power mirrors weren't even standard if even an option on most cars since I was a kid. I'd be fine pulling the motor out for the additional depth.
     
  7. Dec 29, 2016 at 10:05 AM
    #7
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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    @Blackdawg what lights did you put in that second mirror prototype and how did it turn out
     
  8. Dec 29, 2016 at 10:08 AM
    #8
    Blackdawg

    Blackdawg Dr. Frankenstein

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    It's not the motor. It's the linkage and stuff that moves the mirror that gets in the way.

    Won't know till Ya take it apart though haha

    Those are TRS DLRL. Not as bright. But you could fit two or three in my mirrors. Also pita to fit. Look cool though.
     
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  9. Dec 29, 2016 at 10:11 AM
    #9
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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    I was just looking at some like those with an aimable design. If they are difficult to mount then I doubt I'd go that route. Good write up sir
     
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  10. Dec 29, 2016 at 12:17 PM
    #10
    MSU Taco

    MSU Taco [OP] More cowbell

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  11. Dec 29, 2016 at 1:35 PM
    #11
    Blackdawg

    Blackdawg Dr. Frankenstein

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    Shit. Expensive. The dual one is cool though..also expensive haha

    Also remember lumens aren't everything. Lux is better.

    I don't remember what mine output but they are 6w.
     
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