Tail light mod (both lights used as brake and signals)?

Depending on the power your lights need you may be able to tap directly into the wire at your driver's side foot well. This is exactly what I did for my bed lights which are low power LED. For me this works perfectly, your MMV.

However, if you need MORE POWER <Tim Taylor grunt-grunt> you will have to use a relay and have the cab switch output as your trigger. Be aware that this may cause chatter (Rapid on/off cycling) at the relay resulting is strobe effect at the lights.

To avoid strobe a member here @DSIM makes a mod that will link into the dome circuit allowing it to turn lights on and off like your dome with the proximity of your key, open door, switched. You can also mod it to pull it's trigger from that cab light switch rather than the dome. He may be able to advise on the proper wiring.

Good luck!!

 

Tbh you guys have went over my head. I was just thinking I could simply find a connector to attach to the existing plug (let’s say has 4wires for argument sakes, 2 for brake and 2 for dome) pin 4 matching wires into the connector then run them to the back and hook up the caps brake light and the dome light. So essentially the caps third brake light will function as the trucks third brake with cab switch controls intact.

As I sit here typing this I can see how the caps dome would be solely dependent on the switch in the cab. I was already thinking of putting a switch on the rear glass to turn on when opened but I see now I would have to tie into the door ajar function… maybe this is what you guys are talking about or hinting at? I’d definitely prefer this route. It might be a little bit more than I thought at least for the dome light/door ajar function.

I don’t have any dome lights as of now installed. I’m thinking of just 1 strip on the backside of the third brake light facing down and in will be sufficient for my needs

 

OK.. now I think I understand what you want. To be sure, this is what I understand you want... 1. a light inside you cap that will come on with the Cargo/cab light via the switch to the left of the steering wheel. 2. The bake light in the cap to light up when you hit the brakes.

#1 pull lower left dash for access to the switch. Run BOTH wires from your LED mounted inside your cap under the truck, through a grommet to said switch. Unfortunately I do not recall which 2 wires I tapped for my bed lights. I did use google to find a schematic and a meter to verify google was correct to determine these. I can pull my lower dash after Thanksgiving to see which ones I tap and let you know if you like but it will not be prior to Saturday. Once tapped the light will come on when the switch is in the "auto" (doors opening and closing) position, and can be switched on at any time as well.

#2 Simple matter of using a tap to pick up power from the brake light, either right or left at the tailgate. See wire schematics in this thread for exactly which wire to tap. There are several screws in the tail light area that can be used for grounding. Problem solved 3rd brake light will now work.

If I understand your wants correctly, your answer is there. If not please help us understand so we can help you more effectively. Either way there is NO need to use the plug to the cab mounted brake and cargo light. to do so you would also have to pull the headliner and make a LOT more work for yourself than using the method as @tonered and I have suggested and explained.

Good luck!!

 

Sub’d

 

Hey man, you still working on this? @mesojdm

 

Yup! Finishing up the first set of test harnesses



I also have another development going on for the switchback reverse bulb. I’m working with an LED company to manufacture a T10(921) size that will pop right into the lower reverse bucket. So ZERO modifications to the tail lights will be necessary. 100% plug and play dual brake/switchback reverse kit.

 

You planning on making anymore of those third brake lights or interior lights again?

 

I’m always making more. But I jump around on production so if it’s not in stock, just wait until I make my way around to that particular mod again

 

Not sure yet, still in development stages and price/distribution sourcing. I think I am going to do a full LED conversion kit(double brake, switchback bottom, T harness) full plug and play.

 

Awesome! When is Christmas? Are you still going to make your led taillights?

 

Stewart, I know I’m in for a set when your ready.

Thanks.

 

Looking good!

 

Sorry for the confusion but I just don’t want to tap/splice into the factory wires just yet. I’d rather find connectors/plugs for the time being.

I know it’s being “extra” and adds more work/cost but it’s the route I want to try and go for as long as possible

 

Got another future sale right here

 

Add me to the future sale list too!

 

...and that's all I have to say about that.

 

Please and thank you

 

Your mama taught you right.

 

+1 for full LED conversion kit.

 

@mesojdm jopefully you will consider selling DIY connector parts like you have for some other pieces.