My dash light mod
#23
If your LEDs burn out, it may be bacause they didn't have integrated current limiting resistors. LEDs are made to operate between 2-5VDC w/o current limiting. When you hook them up to a +12VDC (up to 13.8V when driving - alternator charging), they exceed their current rating. Either buy LED's with built-in resistors and a rating for up to 15V, OR, add a 10K-Ohm, 1/8W resistor in-series with one of the LED legs. I've been using LEDs for switch indicator lights for years with no problems, and I buy the cheap ones w/o resistors at Radio Shack....in whatever color I need. I do like the idea of using them to illuminate the window controls, and also need some for illuminating my driving and rock light switches mounted in the panel by the shifter.
Hope this helps.....and I got some nice ideas from this thread.
Hope this helps.....and I got some nice ideas from this thread.
#24
JK Super Freak
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If you buy the "ricer" kits at Advance Auto/Auto Zone/O'Reilly's, they come with resistors already wired in. I think they ended up being 8 or 10 bucks for a 4 pack at the auto store, but you can buy them online for cheaper. I tend to like to touch things before I buy them, however. Just be sure you buy them all from the same company, as all reds are not the same, and if you have two side by side that are different, it looks odd.
Or you can do the radio shack thing. I bought my red fighter pilot switch from there.
Or you can do the radio shack thing. I bought my red fighter pilot switch from there.
Last edited by Dr.McNinja; 02-10-2010 at 09:24 PM.
#25
JK Super Freak
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JK Super Freak
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