Custom engine bay lights: $10
Super bright, even total illumination for a night time fix. I like this way better than the OEM light as this puts out way more illumination.
Parts:
- LED light strip, 5050 SMD IP67 cool white, 300 LEDs/5m length off of eBay for $4. The Buy It Now price is higher so I went for the bid.
- Ball bearing switch, which is on when the hood is up, off when you close the hood, $4 at a local shop for a 10 pack.
- Harbor Freight 8” black zip ties for $2
Very easy to do. Simply:
1. Pull down the engine bay liner by pulling the retaining clips out
2. Place the LED strip where you want, cut if desired, then wire the strip in series.
3. Cut small slits on both sides of the LED strip, then use those slits to pass the zip tie through and secure. Personal preference: please the female end of the zip tie on the backside of the lining so it is not visible/cleaner look.
4. I couldn’t find the part number for the male plug for the OEM engine bay light, so I spiced into the harness on the passenger side where the OEM plug is. It is a constant power so that is why a ball bearing or mercury switch is needed.
5. Have enough wire to run down the hood support arm to the plug above the firewall, put the lining up and you’re done!
You can chose any color LED you want, but I recommend IP67 rated for and water that it would be exposed to. If you want to go the extra mile, you can get the RGB LED light strips then you can change to any color you want, then have it flash patterns (DO NOT DO ON THE ROAD). There are kits out there in excess of $20 with a hood switch, but only a short length of an LED strip. I like my method for the price so options are out there. Lastly, you can wire this to a switch instead of a ball bearing/mercury switch.
Enjoy your new illumination!
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