View Full Version : PNW LED Question


DAYofFIRE
12-15-2009, 04:14 AM
I was just curious if any of my PNW peers have had any luck with finding LEDs that are durable enough to handle the headlamp housing heat? I have gone through 2 pairs over the last year or so & tired of buying from SuperbrightLEDs.com. Nothing wrong with their service, they're very upfront about not putting the bulbs in the headlamp housing. Just tired of paying shipping.
I have also bought colored glass bulbs, they just as weak (endurance wise). I prefer the LED look.
Also, if you know of any shops in the PDX area that have these in stock, I'd appreciate their info. I hate waiting for shipping.

dodaddy
12-15-2009, 04:29 AM
which version of the LED's were u buying from superbright LED's?! my friend jamarri has them in like 3 of his cars headlamps i think LOL

BZinn1
12-15-2009, 02:09 PM
in 07 and older headlights they just do not last as long due to the heat form the headlight being right over it......which ones are you thinking on using.

DAYofFIRE
12-15-2009, 06:11 PM
194/168 wedge bulbs. I've used the inverted cone LED, the 5 bulb LED (4 around the outside & 1 on top), and another that is a cluster of 5 or 6 bulbs (these were on the license plate & 1 stopped working). All have failed after a month or so of usage. I knew that they had their disclaimer about using in the headlamps, but figured it was so I couldn't return them...obviously I was the chump. The other bulbs I've bought for my map lights, domes, and rear cargo work just fine.
I might have to go with PIAA pinch bulbs, but I like the look of the LED.
Figured I'd ask, see if someone had a better idea.

Iceman04503
12-15-2009, 06:20 PM
I usually buy my leds off of autolumination.com They have fast shipping and the leds have lasted fairly long what color led are you looking for?

DAYofFIRE
12-15-2009, 06:40 PM
I usually buy my leds off of autolumination.com They have fast shipping and the leds have lasted fairly long what color led are you looking for?
Cool white ... want to replicate the Lexus look for the front & back.

alienvictim
12-15-2009, 06:40 PM
the resistors provided to you or the ones your are using may be incorrect. i would try raising the resistance value of the resistors inline or not so the led doesn't run so hot. they may be slightly dimmer not really noticeable but it beats replacing them constantly.

and most products have an operating temperature range. hot and cold that they will work until failure consult this and you may also have your answer.

i understand that the heat from the housing may be a factor but realistically it shouldn't be burning the LED's out.....

if anything else oznium (http://www.oznium.com/) sells a lot of really good led products.

Iceman04503
12-15-2009, 06:43 PM
Cool white ... want to replicate the Lexus look for the front & back.

Not really sure what cool white is...

SquallLHeart
12-15-2009, 06:54 PM
it's the opposite of warm white.

dodaddy
12-15-2009, 06:57 PM
it's the opposite of warm white.


LOL!

Iceman04503
12-15-2009, 06:58 PM
it's the opposite of warm white.

ha ha funny

DAYofFIRE
12-15-2009, 11:04 PM
ha ha funny

Awesome... :rofl:
actually...cool white is closer to the blue end of the spectrum, basically as white as you can get with no yellowish tint.

The bulbs I've gone through don't mention anything about resistors. They basically sell them a straight across swaps. Unless you want them to blink, then there is a load balancer & relay package you have to add.

alienvictim
12-16-2009, 02:45 AM
are you using bulbs or LED's?

fokai
12-28-2009, 12:37 AM
Sounds like he's using bulbs, cuz he said wedge bulb aka 194. By the way you can buy those at autozone and pepboys has an even bigger selection.

DAYofFIRE
12-29-2009, 12:39 PM
I meant LED. My bad on the wording and forgetting that detail is vital in forums.
Decided not to go with SuperBriteLEDs, found some SMD LEDs on ebay that might work.
Ordered 4 on 12/25 morning and they arrived 12/28 afternoon.
Thanks for the help guys (& gals?). I will let y'all know how they turned out.