***LS430 DIY Blacked out conversion w/ projector & leds**
Here is a write up on my recent Do it yourself Lexus LS430 Headlight conversion.
So I took the plunge on doing this exhausting modification to my headlights.
Modifications include;
Double Projector, black housing, clear corners and 45 leds on each side.
I had previously placed my ES300 headlights in the oven, so, I had no fear in doing so on these.:cool:
The one thing I did ponder for some time was the electrical and to make sure those led’s lit up.
I’m quite the novice to these type of things, but once you get started, you just gotta figure out how to finish!:rolleyes:
Comments good or bad are welcomed, Perhaps there was an easier way for those mcgyvers out there...........nevertheless, here ya go.
Tools and product needed:
Dremel (with cutters, sanders and drill)
Safety goggles
Black erasable marker
10mm socket
Mini zip ties
Screwdrivers
Chrome door trim
Razorblade
Krazyglue
Prismatic lighting panel (lowes or home depot 8 bucks)
Black electrical tape
Black spray paint (the one that bonds to plastic)
Clear Silicone (w caulk gun)
Chrome tape
_________________________________________
2 projectors
100 5mm leds (your choice in color)
Time: 13 hours for first headlight. 41/2 for second (you get fast after doing first one)
Start by removing headlight from car.
3 10mm bolts to get one side of bumper off and 3 10mm to get Headlight out.

These are the 5mm pre-wired led’s. they have built in resistors and are 12v application.

View original BBCode
Here is a write up on my recent Do it yourself Lexus LS430 Headlight conversion.
So I took the plunge on doing this exhausting modification to my headlights.
Modifications include;
Double Projector, black housing, clear corners and 45 leds on each side.
I had previously placed my ES300 headlights in the oven, so, I had no fear in doing so on these.:cool:
The one thing I did ponder for some time was the electrical and to make sure those led’s lit up.
I’m quite the novice to these type of things, but once you get started, you just gotta figure out how to finish!:rolleyes:
Comments good or bad are welcomed, Perhaps there was an easier way for those mcgyvers out there...........nevertheless, here ya go.
Tools and product needed:
Dremel (with cutters, sanders and drill)
Safety goggles
Black erasable marker
10mm socket
Mini zip ties
Screwdrivers
Chrome door trim
Razorblade
Krazyglue
Prismatic lighting panel (lowes or home depot 8 bucks)
Black electrical tape
Black spray paint (the one that bonds to plastic)
Clear Silicone (w caulk gun)
Chrome tape
_________________________________________
2 projectors
100 5mm leds (your choice in color)
Time: 13 hours for first headlight. 41/2 for second (you get fast after doing first one)
Start by removing headlight from car.
3 10mm bolts to get one side of bumper off and 3 10mm to get Headlight out.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_1.JPG[/IMG]
These are the 5mm pre-wired led’s. they have built in resistors and are 12v application.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_2.JPG[/IMG]
This is the material used to insert leds. it has small pockets on backside, perfect for drilling your hole for led snug fit.

Now we make stencils out of this

Now dremel and cut out drawing

Make sure it lines up good

close up

with a erasable marker, you mark where how your gonna line up the leds

now smoothe out edges

the edges get pretty rough due to the melting plastic as you cut them
so, using the dremel sander to smoothe things out

here is the rough draft

View original BBCode
This is the material used to insert leds. it has small pockets on backside, perfect for drilling your hole for led snug fit.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_3.JPG[/IMG]
Now we make stencils out of this
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_4.JPG[/IMG]
Now dremel and cut out drawing
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_6.JPG[/IMG]
Make sure it lines up good
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_9.JPG[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_7.JPG[/IMG]
close up
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy10.JPG[/IMG]
with a erasable marker, you mark where how your gonna line up the leds
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_11_1_.JPG[/IMG]
now smoothe out edges
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy15.JPG[/IMG]
the edges get pretty rough due to the melting plastic as you cut them
so, using the dremel sander to smoothe things out
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy_12.JPG[/IMG]
here is the rough draft
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy14.JPG[/IMG]
After all edges are fined down, I wrapped them in chrome plastic trim for a fuller look.

Time to cut holes. As Ideal as it would be to get a 5mm bit and just drill to perfection…..
The problem I found with that is that the plastc brakes as its too much to handle.
So, I got the smallest bit and drilled all holes first. Secondly, I edged them individually
So that the led fits snug.

secure all leds in place

and of course I couldn’t have done it without my little helper

while your in here chrome tape will cover the holes from taking the orange reflectors off

coming together. As you can see the wires do bunch up to quite a bit, so I made a window
to go towards the back

Here you can see all black are connected with extension to reach your power source and
Braded at the tip

after extending all wires and separating them positive and negative, you can drill hole
and zip tie the bunch like so

View original BBCode
After all edges are fined down, I wrapped them in chrome plastic trim for a fuller look.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy16.JPG[/IMG]
Time to cut holes. As Ideal as it would be to get a 5mm bit and just drill to perfection…..
The problem I found with that is that the plastc brakes as its too much to handle.
So, I got the smallest bit and drilled all holes first. Secondly, I edged them individually
So that the led fits snug.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy17.JPG[/IMG]
secure all leds in place
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy19.JPG[/IMG]
and of course I couldn’t have done it without my little helper
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy21.JPG[/IMG]
while your in here chrome tape will cover the holes from taking the orange reflectors off
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy23.JPG[/IMG]
coming together. As you can see the wires do bunch up to quite a bit, so I made a window
to go towards the back
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy22.JPG[/IMG]
Here you can see all black are connected with extension to reach your power source and
Braded at the tip
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy24.JPG[/IMG]
after extending all wires and separating them positive and negative, you can drill hole
and zip tie the bunch like so
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy25.JPG[/IMG]
Pre heat oven to 350 degrees and let it warm up for at least 15 min.
Turn oven off and wait 2 minutes.
Now stick headlight in oven using a foiled pan.
Leave it in for at least 10 minutes.
Take out and easily seperates.

now exposing what were going to paint

test fit projector

mask off for painting

I went the easy way on this and sprayed it with black spray (bond to plastic kind)
Originally wanted black chrome, but that’s 10 days to get back and didn’t have the down time that it takes.
Ok, so here is first coat

Remove the non projector highbeam housing

and make small adjustments where needed for projector install
now we are ready to mount black housing back together for sealing

back in the oven. Same as above. 10 to 12 minutes to let adhesive mend back to place

View original BBCode
Pre heat oven to 350 degrees and let it warm up for at least 15 min.
Turn oven off and wait 2 minutes.
Now stick headlight in oven using a foiled pan.
Leave it in for at least 10 minutes.
Take out and easily seperates.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy26.JPG[/IMG]
now exposing what were going to paint
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy27.JPG[/IMG]
test fit projector
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy28.JPG[/IMG]
mask off for painting
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy29.JPG[/IMG]
I went the easy way on this and sprayed it with black spray (bond to plastic kind)
Originally wanted black chrome, but that’s 10 days to get back and didn’t have the down time that it takes.
Ok, so here is first coat
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy30.JPG[/IMG]
Remove the non projector highbeam housing
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy31.JPG[/IMG]
and make small adjustments where needed for projector install
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy32.JPG[/IMG]
now we are ready to mount black housing back together for sealing
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy33.JPG[/IMG]
back in the oven. Same as above. 10 to 12 minutes to let adhesive mend back to place
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy34.JPG[/IMG]
The is the power source, positive and negative. This is the parking light wires so leds come on when parking lights are on.

positive and negative ready to connect

and here are the results

side view

and Night shot

View original BBCode
The is the power source, positive and negative. This is the parking light wires so leds come on when parking lights are on.
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy35.JPG[/IMG]
positive and negative ready to connect
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy36.JPG[/IMG]
and here are the results
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy37.jpg[/IMG]
side view
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy39.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy38.jpg[/IMG]
and Night shot
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/diy40.jpg[/IMG]
amazing. How did you connect all of those LEDS to that one small wire? That seems like alot of wire down to one. And where did you source those prewired leds with resistors? Great job Gato. Looks like it couldnt have been done any better.
View original BBCode
amazing. How did you connect all of those LEDS to that one small wire? That seems like alot of wire down to one. And where did you source those prewired leds with resistors? Great job Gato. Looks like it couldnt have been done any better.
dude thats hella gangster
View original BBCode
dude thats hella gangster
that shit is g...
View original BBCode
that shit is g...
Nice work! Puts any of my headlight mods to shame for sure. Now I know who to PM when I begin my next headlight conversion project. hahaha
View original BBCode
Nice work! Puts any of my headlight mods to shame for sure. Now I know who to PM when I begin my next headlight conversion project. hahaha
nice work gio!
View original BBCode
nice work gio!
nice writeup. interesting way to make an led board.
View original BBCode
nice writeup. interesting way to make an led board.
would like to know where you got the leds.
View original BBCode
would like to know where you got the leds.
Great write up! I saw these in person and they look tits! When you pulled up with them on I was like Daaaaaaaamn!! They take the car to a whole different level. This is a mod that everyone should get creative with. Light panel is BRILLIANT.
View original BBCode
Great write up! I saw these in person and they look tits! When you pulled up with them on I was like Daaaaaaaamn!! They take the car to a whole different level. This is a mod that everyone should get creative with. Light panel is BRILLIANT.
ebay got the leds. the good thing about wiring it individual is you will know exactly which one goes out. however is not as clean as on a board in series
View original BBCode
ebay got the leds. the good thing about wiring it individual is you will know exactly which one goes out. however is not as clean as on a board in series
super nice write-up!!!!
:biggthumpup:
they came out amazing too.
View original BBCode
super nice write-up!!!!
:biggthumpup:
they came out amazing too.
nice touch, looks good
View original BBCode
nice touch, looks good
Looks real nice
View original BBCode
Looks real nice
now how much to do my set!?? def some top notch work and quality! great write up man :biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
now how much to do my set!?? def some top notch work and quality! great write up man :biggthumpup:
good work man.. that shits dope!
View original BBCode
good work man.. that shits dope!
better copy right that look before junction produce sticks thier name on it and sells it for $$$.. ...
looks amazing ...good work ..
View original BBCode
better copy right that look before junction produce sticks thier name on it and sells it for $$$.. ...
looks amazing ...good work ..
So from the looks of the the parking light housing is separate from the main light housing? Is this correct? Does anybody know if it's the same on the '01-'03?
View original BBCode
So from the looks of the the parking light housing is separate from the main light housing? Is this correct? Does anybody know if it's the same on the '01-'03?
wow
thats sick wit it :biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
thats sick wit it :biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup:
Great effort! Looks awesome. That led setup is wicked.
View original BBCode
Great effort! Looks awesome. That led setup is wicked.
dope!! nuff said
View original BBCode
dope!! nuff said
holy sh** thats dope!! +2 on sourcing the leds please! got an extra foglight that i wanna practice on!! Your car is straight GANGSTA!!
View original BBCode
holy sh** thats dope!! +2 on sourcing the leds please! got an extra foglight that i wanna practice on!! Your car is straight GANGSTA!!
bad asss
View original BBCode
bad asss
wow, lotta love on this.
I learned to take the color comments....some love the color some hate it and thats that.
if I go back to pure white one day...I plan on running all white leds and a strip of yellow/gold at the bottom.
but for now I love the look it gives....something about a blk car rollin illuminating the road in violet...insane!
urmyhero4now;277952 wrote:amazing. How did you connect all of those LEDS to that one small wire? That seems like alot of wire down to one. And where did you source those prewired leds with resistors? Great job Gato. Looks like it couldnt have been done any better.
yes, it was indeed alot of wire down to one. actually all blk and all red got down to 6 and then 6 to 3 to braid at the end.
the leds were sourced from 1michiganger on ebay. he's in the US and made here. plus its faster than getting them from overseas.
jaynick808;277959 wrote:nice writeup. interesting way to make an led board.
it is intresting, and now that I have done it and reviewed it...its quite mickey mouse if you ask me:slap:....after doing more and more research, I have ordered some new goodies and going for a full circuit board and doing 70 leds on each side. stay tuned for that.
VIPPEDOUT;277960 wrote:would like to know where you got the leds.
1michiganger on ebay. he's in the US and made here. plus its faster than getting them from overseas.
dzznuts671;278070 wrote:holy sh** thats dope!! +2 on sourcing the leds please! got an extra foglight that i wanna practice on!! Your car is straight GANGSTA!!
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
View original BBCode
wow, lotta love on this.
I learned to take the color comments....some love the color some hate it and thats that.
if I go back to pure white one day...I plan on running all white leds and a strip of yellow/gold at the bottom.
but for now I love the look it gives....something about a blk car rollin illuminating the road in violet...insane!
[QUOTE=urmyhero4now;277952]amazing. How did you connect all of those LEDS to that one small wire? That seems like alot of wire down to one. And where did you source those prewired leds with resistors? Great job Gato. Looks like it couldnt have been done any better.[/QUOTE]
yes, it was indeed alot of wire down to one. actually all blk and all red got down to 6 and then 6 to 3 to braid at the end.
the leds were sourced from 1michiganger on ebay. he's in the US and made here. plus its faster than getting them from overseas.
[QUOTE=jaynick808;277959]nice writeup. interesting way to make an led board.[/QUOTE]
[COLOR=red]it is intresting, and now that I have done it and reviewed it...its quite mickey mouse if you ask me[/COLOR]:slap:....[COLOR=red]after doing more and more research, I have ordered some new goodies and going for a full circuit board and doing 70 leds on each side. stay tuned for that.[/COLOR]
[QUOTE=VIPPEDOUT;277960]would like to know where you got the leds.[/QUOTE]
1michiganger on ebay. he's in the US and made here. plus its faster than getting them from overseas.
[QUOTE=dzznuts671;278070]holy sh** thats dope!! +2 on sourcing the leds please! got an extra foglight that i wanna practice on!! Your car is straight GANGSTA!![/QUOTE]
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
F&*kin Pimp to the third power. I love the color. love the way it looks on the car, love everything about the mod. and damn its just super pimp. :bigok:
View original BBCode
F&*kin Pimp to the third power. I love the color. love the way it looks on the car, love everything about the mod. and damn its just super pimp. :bigok:
Whoa thats sick... And lots of hours in that work, good stuff.
PROPS :biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
Whoa thats sick... And lots of hours in that work, good stuff.
PROPS :biggthumpup:
Good write up, nice work, I love styrene...works good for 3rd brakelights too.
View original BBCode
Good write up, nice work, I love styrene...works good for 3rd brakelights too.
I like the violet! It's different.
Just curious, hows the quality of the led's? I was wondering because some people have had led's that burn out too soon. It looks like a lot of trouble to have to go in and replace all those led's if they burn out.
View original BBCode
I like the violet! It's different.
Just curious, hows the quality of the led's? I was wondering because some people have had led's that burn out too soon. It looks like a lot of trouble to have to go in and replace all those led's if they burn out.
Good shit Gato.
View original BBCode
Good shit Gato.
very bright purple leds. looks sick
View original BBCode
very bright purple leds. looks sick
looks good gato, want to covert my tail lights to led? lol
View original BBCode
looks good gato, want to covert my tail lights to led? lol
props and made a write up , you sir are helpful and sick !
View original BBCode
props and made a write up , you sir are helpful and sick !
Fanatstic work! I love it. It really takes your car to a new level.
View original BBCode
Fanatstic work! I love it. It really takes your car to a new level.
Yo that is the beesnees:biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
Yo that is the beesnees:biggthumpup:
Gato, this is awesome. Thank you for sharing.
View original BBCode
Gato, this is awesome. Thank you for sharing.
thanks for the comments guys....I love the look
Bippu Insanity;278269 wrote:I like the violet! It's different.
Just curious, hows the quality of the led's? I was wondering because some people have had led's that burn out too soon. It looks like a lot of trouble to have to go in and replace all those led's if they burn out.
Their actually very reliable... I had a few go out....but they werent out...they just werent getting the current.....so I just replayed with the wirring connect underneath the fender liner and they came on.
Bippu PxrLex;278440 wrote:props and made a write up , you sir are helpful and sick !
thanks James, just tryin to do it big...
AME_VIP;278477 wrote:Fanatstic work! I love it. It really takes your car to a new level.
thank you, you know Im starting to feel that it is taking the car a step forward...I just had my trunk done up audio, suade and all, so I feel that soon I can call it "Gato Complete" cause I have touched almost all aspects of the car. and currenty doing interior:dance:
View original BBCode
thanks for the comments guys....I love the look
[QUOTE=Bippu Insanity;278269]I like the violet! It's different.
Just curious, hows the quality of the led's? I was wondering because some people have had led's that burn out too soon. It looks like a lot of trouble to have to go in and replace all those led's if they burn out.[/QUOTE]
Their actually very reliable... I had a few go out....but they werent out...they just werent getting the current.....so I just replayed with the wirring connect underneath the fender liner and they came on.
[QUOTE=Bippu PxrLex;278440]props and made a write up , you sir are helpful and sick ![/QUOTE]
thanks James, just tryin to do it big...
[QUOTE=AME_VIP;278477]Fanatstic work! I love it. It really takes your car to a new level.[/QUOTE]
thank you, you know Im starting to feel that it is taking the car a step forward...I just had my trunk done up audio, suade and all, so I feel that soon I can call it "Gato Complete" cause I have touched almost all aspects of the car. and currenty doing interior:dance:
Great write up........nice DIY modd.
"if I go back to pure white one day...I plan on running all white leds and a strip of yellow/gold at the bottom."
I look forward in seeing that Color combination "if" and "when" it is done. Kind of strange coming from a guy who owns a Purple Egg.
Much props nevertheless.....got some DIY skills.
Sukoshiyoshi
View original BBCode
Great write up........nice DIY modd.
"if I go back to pure white one day...I plan on running all white leds and a strip of yellow/gold at the bottom."
I look forward in seeing that Color combination "if" and "when" it is done. Kind of strange coming from a guy who owns a Purple Egg.
Much props nevertheless.....got some DIY skills.
Sukoshiyoshi
NICE FCUKIN WRITE UP !!!
View original BBCode
NICE FCUKIN WRITE UP !!!
good job Gato!!! Yea, I know...been MIA...lol
View original BBCode
good job Gato!!! Yea, I know...been MIA...lol
nice write up ! love the color i might change the f50 cima color soon still dont know what color i am running all white with a custom switch back led and looks sick at night !
View original BBCode
nice write up ! love the color i might change the f50 cima color soon still dont know what color i am running all white with a custom switch back led and looks sick at night !
great mod and great writeup if i cant get my own retro done i might be asking for some help.
View original BBCode
great mod and great writeup if i cant get my own retro done i might be asking for some help.
SICK as FUCK!!!! DO they have that clear plastic without the diamond pattern? One of my headlight is chipped due to gasoline drip.
View original BBCode
SICK as FUCK!!!! DO they have that clear plastic without the diamond pattern? One of my headlight is chipped due to gasoline drip.
^ Go to home depot and ask for the lexan/plexiglass/cast acrylic they have all sorts of sizes and thicknesses. You can heat it up and bend it into shape with a heat gun.
View original BBCode
^ Go to home depot and ask for the lexan/plexiglass/cast acrylic they have all sorts of sizes and thicknesses. You can heat it up and bend it into shape with a heat gun.
speedaddict;278695 wrote:good job Gato!!! Yea, I know...been MIA...lol
damn bro where you been
ELFATHER F50 CIMA;278806 wrote:nice write up ! love the color i might change the f50 cima color soon still dont know what color i am running all white with a custom switch back led and looks sick at night !
got pics?
Qfour5;278836 wrote:great mod and great writeup if i cant get my own retro done i might be asking for some help.
anytime just pm me
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=speedaddict;278695]good job Gato!!! Yea, I know...been MIA...lol[/QUOTE]
damn bro where you been
[QUOTE=ELFATHER F50 CIMA;278806]nice write up ! love the color i might change the f50 cima color soon still dont know what color i am running all white with a custom switch back led and looks sick at night ![/QUOTE]
got pics?
[QUOTE=Qfour5;278836]great mod and great writeup if i cant get my own retro done i might be asking for some help.[/QUOTE]
anytime just pm me
i'm 100% back into things. Had lots of problems with JPI supercharger install...now its speedaddict supercharger install and its all good so far.
View original BBCode
i'm 100% back into things. Had lots of problems with JPI supercharger install...now its speedaddict supercharger install and its all good so far.
where did u get the projector?
i'd like to change out the headlights on my tl for some projectors.
I've been guilty of running HID's w/o projectors and i have been blinding drivers :shrug:so i'd like to stop that.
View original BBCode
where did u get the projector?
i'd like to change out the headlights on my tl for some projectors.
I've been guilty of running HID's w/o projectors and i have been blinding drivers :shrug:so i'd like to stop that.
How bright are those LED's? I can't imagine them being as bright as your HID fogs like in the pics? Are they really that bright? If so..pretty sweet. The problem I was having is getting bright enough ones to be seen when my headlight and fog HID's are on.
View original BBCode
How bright are those LED's? I can't imagine them being as bright as your HID fogs like in the pics? Are they really that bright? If so..pretty sweet. The problem I was having is getting bright enough ones to be seen when my headlight and fog HID's are on.
^ With the sun still in the sky they were brighter then the purple HID foglights under them. They are bright.
View original BBCode
^ With the sun still in the sky they were brighter then the purple HID foglights under them. They are bright.
Wow, so sick! Love to see these types of mods and work. Great write up too.
View original BBCode
Wow, so sick! Love to see these types of mods and work. Great write up too.
knew this was happening.....but still was completely shocked! when i saw them for the first time in person....simply AMAZING!
View original BBCode
knew this was happening.....but still was completely shocked! when i saw them for the first time in person....simply AMAZING!
davipstar;279182 wrote:where did u get the projector?
i'd like to change out the headlights on my tl for some projectors.
I've been guilty of running HID's w/o projectors and i have been blinding drivers :shrug:so i'd like to stop that.
I found the projectors on ebay. they are mercedes oem clk
elpresidente;279187 wrote:How bright are those LED's? I can't imagine them being as bright as your HID fogs like in the pics? Are they really that bright? If so..pretty sweet. The problem I was having is getting bright enough ones to be seen when my headlight and fog HID's are on.
they are bright like the pic but obviously dont illuminate the road or anything.
when I have my fogs and headlights on you can definitly tell they are there.
burgy;279243 wrote:Wow, so sick! Love to see these types of mods and work. Great write up too.
Thanks burg
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=davipstar;279182]where did u get the projector?
i'd like to change out the headlights on my tl for some projectors.
I've been guilty of running HID's w/o projectors and i have been blinding drivers :shrug:so i'd like to stop that.[/QUOTE]
I found the projectors on ebay. they are mercedes oem clk
[QUOTE=elpresidente;279187]How bright are those LED's? I can't imagine them being as bright as your HID fogs like in the pics? Are they really that bright? If so..pretty sweet. The problem I was having is getting bright enough ones to be seen when my headlight and fog HID's are on.[/QUOTE]
they are bright like the pic but obviously dont illuminate the road or anything.
when I have my fogs and headlights on you can definitly tell they are there.
[QUOTE=burgy;279243]Wow, so sick! Love to see these types of mods and work. Great write up too.[/QUOTE]
Thanks burg
ok good info, except the person u got the led's didn't have any, where else could i find some purple led's with resistors built in like that. I have a friend who says he could make me some without the resistors being attached like that, he says he could sodder them together but i like the way the one you have are better.
View original BBCode
ok good info, except the person u got the led's didn't have any, where else could i find some purple led's with resistors built in like that. I have a friend who says he could make me some without the resistors being attached like that, he says he could sodder them together but i like the way the one you have are better.
davipstar;279385 wrote:ok good info, except the person u got the led's didn't have any, where else could i find some purple led's with resistors built in like that. I have a friend who says he could make me some without the resistors being attached like that, he says he could sodder them together but i like the way the one you have are better.
he has them. trust me.
the way your friend wants to do it is the way im fixin to do mine on a circuit board. you should try that a way
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=davipstar;279385]ok good info, except the person u got the led's didn't have any, where else could i find some purple led's with resistors built in like that. I have a friend who says he could make me some without the resistors being attached like that, he says he could sodder them together but i like the way the one you have are better.[/QUOTE]
he has them. trust me.
the way your friend wants to do it is the way im fixin to do mine on a circuit board. you should try that a way
Yeah i got pics but i dont wanna jack your post so ill post soon at a thread :biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
Yeah i got pics but i dont wanna jack your post so ill post soon at a thread :biggthumpup:
thats sick! love the custom work.
View original BBCode
thats sick! love the custom work.
sick work G
View original BBCode
sick work G
Props on the time you took to do this tedious mod. Excellent job Gato!!! Btw, I was honored to do a small photo shoot with your old GS last month.
View original BBCode
Props on the time you took to do this tedious mod. Excellent job Gato!!! Btw, I was honored to do a small photo shoot with your old GS last month.
veritek;282120 wrote:Props on the time you took to do this tedious mod. Excellent job Gato!!! Btw, I was honored to do a small photo shoot with your old GS last month.
really lets see it....
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=veritek;282120]Props on the time you took to do this tedious mod. Excellent job Gato!!! Btw, I was honored to do a small photo shoot with your old GS last month.[/QUOTE]
really lets see it....
gato;282125 wrote:really lets see it....
The photographer is still processing the pics. He tried out some rig shots and some other interesting shots. I'll post when he sends them to me. Four of us GS owners got together for this, and we did it because the owner of your old GS was moving out of town.
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=gato;282125]really lets see it....[/QUOTE]
The photographer is still processing the pics. He tried out some rig shots and some other interesting shots. I'll post when he sends them to me. Four of us GS owners got together for this, and we did it because the owner of your old GS was moving out of town.
If you had to redo your headlights, now that you've had them for awhile, what would you change/do differently this time around?
View original BBCode
[B]If you had to redo your headlights, now that you've had them for awhile, what would you change/do differently this time around?[/B]
why didnt you just solder them together?
if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister... that huge mass of wire is an eyesore
BUT i think the end result is awesome, so it kinda negates it
View original BBCode
why didnt you just solder them together?
if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister... that huge mass of wire is an eyesore
BUT i think the end result is awesome, so it kinda negates it
wow looks great. I know Iv told you this before but give me your wheels. ha
View original BBCode
wow looks great. I know Iv told you this before but give me your wheels. ha
berlinas2k2;285618 wrote:If you had to redo your headlights, now that you've had them for awhile, what would you change/do differently this time around?
well, Im currently redoing them so stayed tuned for that.
a better connection and more cleaner install for one.
perhaps a circuit board and alot more leds.
Yokotas13;285678 wrote:why didnt you just solder them together?
if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister... that huge mass of wire is an eyesore
BUT i think the end result is awesome, so it kinda negates it
thanks bro.
yeah, its a lot of wiring. the good thing is that it doesnt show.
but I have a new idea and currently working on it.
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=berlinas2k2;285618][B]If you had to redo your headlights, now that you've had them for awhile, what would you change/do differently this time around?[/B][/QUOTE]
well, Im currently redoing them so stayed tuned for that.
a better connection and more cleaner install for one.
perhaps a circuit board and alot more leds.
[QUOTE=Yokotas13;285678]why didnt you just solder them together?
if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister... that huge mass of wire is an eyesore
BUT i think the end result is awesome, so it kinda negates it[/QUOTE]
thanks bro.
yeah, its a lot of wiring. the good thing is that it doesnt show.
but I have a new idea and currently working on it.
Man Gato, your car is awesome! Great work and I loved it on the SOTU vid.
View original BBCode
Man Gato, your car is awesome! Great work and I loved it on the SOTU vid.
Yokotas13;285678 wrote:if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister...
lol it doesnt work that way
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=Yokotas13;285678]if you run 4 3v LEDs per circuit you dont need a resister...
[/QUOTE]
lol it doesnt work that way
actually
yes it does
i wired up map lights in my silvia like that.
12 LEDs each side. 24 total, wired 4 per circuit
View original BBCode
actually
yes it does
i wired up map lights in my silvia like that.
12 LEDs each side. 24 total, wired 4 per circuit
nevermind
i cant find hte correct pictures in my flickr.
View original BBCode
nevermind
i cant find hte correct pictures in my flickr.
Its really bad for the LEDs to run without a resistor. Even if the voltage seems right, it leaves them without protection, and pretty much every LED tutorial recommends using a resistor.
In a map-light it might not be so bad; its not on for long and doesnt really matter if a LED blows, but in an external light situation, subjected to heat from the projector etc, you want to give your LEDs as much help as possible to avoid an ugly failing LED ruining the whole array.
View original BBCode
Its really bad for the LEDs to run without a resistor. Even if the voltage seems right, it leaves them without protection, and pretty much every LED tutorial recommends using a resistor.
In a map-light it might not be so bad; its not on for long and doesnt really matter if a LED blows, but in an external light situation, subjected to heat from the projector etc, you want to give your LEDs as much help as possible to avoid an ugly failing LED ruining the whole array.
Dominik;287059 wrote:Its really bad for the LEDs to run without a resistor. Even if the voltage seems right, it leaves them without protection, and pretty much every LED tutorial recommends using a resistor.
.
yep these Im using are all 12v application with built in resistor.
so far none has blow out, but rather cant seem to get the the current going on everysingle one....sometimes they will be on 100%, sometimes 99.9, 97% ect....again not blown but rather just not getting the power.
That is why im going to try a cleaner version to where I only have 5 wires to all leds and use a junction box to connect.
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=Dominik;287059]Its really bad for the LEDs to run without a resistor. Even if the voltage seems right, it leaves them without protection, and pretty much every LED tutorial recommends using a resistor.
.[/QUOTE]
yep these Im using are all 12v application with built in resistor.
so far none has blow out, but rather cant seem to get the the current going on everysingle one....sometimes they will be on 100%, sometimes 99.9, 97% ect....again not blown but rather just not getting the power.
That is why im going to try a cleaner version to where I only have 5 wires to all leds and use a junction box to connect.
Can't wait to see the updated version. Can you also draw an schematic diagram?
View original BBCode
Can't wait to see the updated version. Can you also draw an schematic diagram?
Gato, no offence but it might actually be the LEDs. Unless you are using brand name LEDs there is quite a variance in output and colour in the Ebay type LEDs.
The proper LEDs have colour grading (not just "purple"), and bin code to tell you if they were from the same production batch
View original BBCode
Gato, no offence but it might actually be the LEDs. Unless you are using brand name LEDs there is quite a variance in output and colour in the Ebay type LEDs.
The proper LEDs have colour grading (not just "purple"), and bin code to tell you if they were from the same production batch
Dominik;287226 wrote:Gato, no offence but it might actually be the LEDs. Unless you are using brand name LEDs there is quite a variance in output and colour in the Ebay type LEDs.
The proper LEDs have colour grading (not just "purple"), and bin code to tell you if they were from the same production batch
thanks Dom, where do you aquire such leds?
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=Dominik;287226]Gato, no offence but it might actually be the LEDs. Unless you are using brand name LEDs there is quite a variance in output and colour in the Ebay type LEDs.
The proper LEDs have colour grading (not just "purple"), and bin code to tell you if they were from the same production batch[/QUOTE]
thanks Dom, where do you aquire such leds?
I bought a bunch from the classifieds section on hidplanet.com. They have a pretty good LED forum, with heaps of info and knowlegeable people.
There's also links for reputable online shops etc.
View original BBCode
I bought a bunch from the classifieds section on hidplanet.com. They have a pretty good LED forum, with heaps of info and knowlegeable people.
There's also links for reputable online shops etc.
i need to start doing stuff with leds again. im bored lol
View original BBCode
i need to start doing stuff with leds again. im bored lol
Nice ride up!!
Question Where did you get your LED thats wired??
thanks~
View original BBCode
Nice ride up!!
Question Where did you get your LED thats wired??
thanks~
YBLegal;294162 wrote:Nice ride up!!
Question Where did you get your LED thats wired??
thanks~
prewired leds some seller on ebay.... but new ones on oznium.com
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=YBLegal;294162]Nice ride up!!
Question Where did you get your LED thats wired??
thanks~[/QUOTE]
prewired leds some seller on ebay.... but new ones on oznium.com
any updated pics for the new setup?
View original BBCode
any updated pics for the new setup?
urmyhero4now;294961 wrote:any updated pics for the new setup?
soon, bumper coming off Thurs, so im going to knock it out then.
will also be doing another one for a car in the west coast
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=urmyhero4now;294961]any updated pics for the new setup?[/QUOTE]
soon, bumper coming off Thurs, so im going to knock it out then.
will also be doing another one for a car in the west coast
made some progress on the corner lights today.
Did a full clear on the lenses (no more amber inserts), and added LED's to each side. Soldered and heat shrank every connection, and the separate bundles as well. Only took about an hour and a half each side.

View original BBCode
made some progress on the corner lights today.
Did a full clear on the lenses (no more amber inserts), and added LED's to each side. Soldered and heat shrank every connection, and the separate bundles as well. Only took about an hour and a half each side.
[IMG]http://i870.photobucket.com/albums/ab269/jdmra1/New%20Pics/c120e2ee.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i870.photobucket.com/albums/ab269/jdmra1/New%20Pics/084244d0.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i870.photobucket.com/albums/ab269/jdmra1/New%20Pics/0e375945.jpg[/IMG]
well hell.. let's see em lit up
View original BBCode
well hell.. let's see em lit up
Gato, that looks REAL good so far.
View original BBCode
Gato, that looks REAL good so far.
jeebus;299640 wrote:Gato, that looks REAL good so far.
damn it Jeebus! You are not allowed to post on any other threads til you update yours!!! I need to see pics!
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=jeebus;299640]Gato, that looks REAL good so far.[/QUOTE]
damn it Jeebus! You are not allowed to post on any other threads til you update yours!!! I need to see pics!
thats some great work Gato!!!
View original BBCode
thats some great work Gato!!!
That shit looks HOT!!
View original BBCode
That shit looks HOT!!
thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned

View original BBCode
thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/new_led.JPG[/IMG]
question.
gato;301183 wrote:thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned

That awesome set up you doing there bro. What kind of a flexible shiny sheet metal do I be able to find in store? It may sound crazy but I am trying to do this on my 2009 Altima Sedan as vip theme. I love how you did your and wow, that a clean work right there!
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=gato;301183]thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/new_led.JPG[/IMG][/QUOTE]
That awesome set up you doing there bro. What kind of a flexible shiny sheet metal do I be able to find in store? It may sound crazy but I am trying to do this on my 2009 Altima Sedan as vip theme. I love how you did your and wow, that a clean work right there!
looks dope
View original BBCode
looks dope
gato;301183 wrote:thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned

Hey Gato, on ur first set-up, where was ur blinker light mounted?? Just curious since u had all the LEDs where the blinker usually go's, thanx...
Loving what ur doing tho man i cant wait to see the finish product with the white & yellow/gold at the bottom circuit board :biggthumpup::biggthumpup:
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=gato;301183]thank you everyone for the props...
berlinas2k2, that looks dope!
Ok, its time for a little update.....
all of that old set up has been terminated...
I have made some progress today...This new set up is going to be really clean. The design was thaught out carefully and things are looking good.
here is the cutout so far,along with a flexible shiny sheet metal gives you an easy cut out approach with tinner snips...
everything else will be custom fabricated.
I might also have that secnd projector light up...(just like the pic).not for vision but rather like a parking light...
looking like 72 leds on each side...stay tuned
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/new_led.JPG[/IMG][/QUOTE]
Hey Gato, on ur first set-up, where was ur blinker light mounted?? Just curious since u had all the LEDs where the blinker usually go's, thanx...
Loving what ur doing tho man i cant wait to see the finish product with the white & yellow/gold at the bottom circuit board :biggthumpup::biggthumpup:
thanks yall...
they ended up looking like this....
but again unsatisfied and doing redoing as we speak...cars back in the garage for tweekin :pat: tired
the flexible metal you can find here.... i got the .0015 I think
http://www.ksmetals.com/products.html
View original BBCode
thanks yall...
they ended up looking like this....
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/ad5.jpg[/IMG]
but again unsatisfied and doing redoing as we speak...cars back in the garage for tweekin :pat: tired
the flexible metal you can find here.... i got the .0015 I think
[URL]http://www.ksmetals.com/products.html[/URL]
looks a lot cleaner than the first setup
good job!
View original BBCode
looks a lot cleaner than the first setup
good job!
man you need to just shoot down here for a weekend and we can collaborate.
View original BBCode
man you need to just shoot down here for a weekend and we can collaborate.
gato;321976 wrote:thanks yall...
they ended up looking like this....

but again unsatisfied and doing redoing as we speak...cars back in the garage for tweekin :pat: tired
the flexible metal you can find here.... i got the .0015 I think
http://www.ksmetals.com/products.html
wow. look good. are they Aluminum - 36 gauge (.005)?
I noticed there 3 leds are off in the middle on the left side.
How many leds are in the old one and the new one are 72 leds that u mentioned. I don't know, I just like the first once better than 2nd.
Can you take more photos at night with the 2nd set? :)
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=gato;321976]thanks yall...
they ended up looking like this....
[IMG]http://www.clublexus.com/gallery/data//500/ad5.jpg[/IMG]
but again unsatisfied and doing redoing as we speak...cars back in the garage for tweekin :pat: tired
the flexible metal you can find here.... i got the .0015 I think
[URL]http://www.ksmetals.com/products.html[/URL][/QUOTE]
wow. look good. are they Aluminum - 36 gauge (.005)?
I noticed there 3 leds are off in the middle on the left side.
How many leds are in the old one and the new one are 72 leds that u mentioned. I don't know, I just like the first once better than 2nd.
Can you take more photos at night with the 2nd set? :)
the work looks great man, to bad 2gs doesnt have space like that in the headlight.
View original BBCode
the work looks great man, to bad 2gs doesnt have space like that in the headlight.
Looks good gato. The metal is a nice touch, it'd be cool to play with thin copper and other metals and see what comes of it. The lit projector is a nice touch, i'm surprised we don't see that stateside more often.
ac921ol;322299 wrote:the work looks great man, to bad 2gs doesnt have space like that in the headlight.
It does, you just have to make space.
View original BBCode
Looks good gato. The metal is a nice touch, it'd be cool to play with thin copper and other metals and see what comes of it. The lit projector is a nice touch, i'm surprised we don't see that stateside more often.
[QUOTE=ac921ol;322299]the work looks great man, to bad 2gs doesnt have space like that in the headlight.[/QUOTE]
It does, you just have to make space.
very impressive!
View original BBCode
very impressive!
I like the metal touch, very nice for sure !!
View original BBCode
I like the metal touch, very nice for sure !!
Can't wait till you get it perfect and we get too see.
View original BBCode
Can't wait till you get it perfect and we get too see.
cefiro;321818 wrote:Hey Gato, on ur first set-up, where was ur blinker light mounted?? Just curious since u had all the LEDs where the blinker usually go's, thanx...
the blinker still blinks cause its sees through the leds since they are transpatent and cuz the yellow bulb is so bright..
BLKonBLK98;322198 wrote:man you need to just shoot down here for a weekend and we can collaborate.
yeah i was trying to hit you up
rockstar703;322249 wrote:wow. look good. are they Aluminum - 36 gauge (.005)?
it is the .012 the 6X12" sheet will do stk#7181
course you gotta use an industrial hole punch to get the holes in
Green Poupon;322422 wrote:Looks good gato. The metal is a nice touch, it'd be cool to play with thin copper and other metals and see what comes of it. The lit projector is a nice touch, i'm surprised we don't see that stateside more often.
.
yeah they have copper as well, id like to mess with but for a car that has those colors.
Give Me VIP;322468 wrote:Can't wait till you get it perfect and we get too see.
yeah, we'll see...working on something else now.
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=cefiro;321818]Hey Gato, on ur first set-up, where was ur blinker light mounted?? Just curious since u had all the LEDs where the blinker usually go's, thanx...
[/QUOTE]
the blinker still blinks cause its sees through the leds since they are transpatent and cuz the yellow bulb is so bright..
[QUOTE=BLKonBLK98;322198]man you need to just shoot down here for a weekend and we can collaborate.[/QUOTE]
yeah i was trying to hit you up
[QUOTE=rockstar703;322249]wow. look good. are they Aluminum - 36 gauge (.005)?
[/QUOTE]
it is the .012 the 6X12" sheet will do stk#7181
course you gotta use an industrial hole punch to get the holes in
[QUOTE=Green Poupon;322422]Looks good gato. The metal is a nice touch, it'd be cool to play with thin copper and other metals and see what comes of it. The lit projector is a nice touch, i'm surprised we don't see that stateside more often.
.[/QUOTE]
yeah they have copper as well, id like to mess with but for a car that has those colors.
[QUOTE=Give Me VIP;322468]Can't wait till you get it perfect and we get too see.[/QUOTE]
yeah, we'll see...working on something else now.
ugggghhh thats killin the game right there. clean bro. good job!
View original BBCode
ugggghhh thats killin the game right there. clean bro. good job!
gato;322500 wrote:yeah i was trying to hit you up.
don't try and make it sound like my fault. i hit you back everytime you hit me fool. no homo. =p
View original BBCode
[QUOTE=gato;322500]yeah i was trying to hit you up.[/QUOTE]
don't try and make it sound like my fault. i hit you back everytime you hit me fool. no homo. =p
What temp etc are your fogs?
View original BBCode
What temp etc are your fogs?
nice craftsmanship... those lights came out real nice
View original BBCode
nice craftsmanship... those lights came out real nice
good thread =)
View original BBCode
good thread =)
Strong work! Came out really nice!
View original BBCode
Strong work! Came out really nice!
hey men thats cool the way u did those head lights little stuff like that makes a big difference, the light make it real aggresive look to the car.
View original BBCode
hey men thats cool the way u did those head lights little stuff like that makes a big difference, the light make it real aggresive look to the car.
forgot bout this thread qurious are you useing straight purple fogs or some type of 20k?
Give Me VIP;322524 wrote:What temp etc are your fogs?
View original BBCode
forgot bout this thread qurious are you useing straight purple fogs or some type of 20k?
[QUOTE=Give Me VIP;322524]What temp etc are your fogs?[/QUOTE]
That little change to the headlights made a big differnce...Looks clean good job..
View original BBCode
That little change to the headlights made a big differnce...Looks clean good job..
amazing work
View original BBCode
amazing work
Damn, that's hella nice!
View original BBCode
Damn, that's hella nice!