6 Tips for Putting Holiday Lights on Your Jeep
Here are some things to know before adding holiday lights to your Jeep.
1. Wash Your Car
You will be attaching the lights using tape, and, in order for it to stick better, a clean car is necessary. If you think about it, it makes sense; tape will not adhere well to a dirty, dusty car.
If you are planning to wash the car after the lights are up, remember to wrap the exposed plugs, unplug the inverter, and avoid spraying the lights directly. Afterwards, let the car dry and replace the tape where needed.
2. Use the Right Tape
Using duct tape will leave a residue on your Jeep's paint, and even though you can buy cleaners that will remove the residue, why go through the hassle? Painter's tape or Gaffer tape will work just fine and won't leave that residue. Gaffer tape comes in many colors so you can match the paint, or you can take a marker and paint the tape the same color as your Jeep.
When placing the tape, make sure to keep speed in mind. You will want to add more tape if you plan on driving faster on the road, as this will make sure it will stay put and avoid rattling. Add tape to every second light or on every light (seen above). For more on tape and placement, check out this video.
3. Buy a Power Inverter
An inverter will convert the car's power to house power so you can plug in the Christmas lights. An inverter with 150 watts is more than enough, but it will depend on how many light strings you are planning to add. Always keep in mind the amount of watts each light bulb takes and never exceed the power output of the inverter. Some inverters can be plugged into the cigarette lighter and others to the car's battery.
4. Use LED Outdoor Lights
LED lights are not only a brighter option, they are also energy efficient. Conversely, you have many options for lights and can even use solar powered Christmas lights, but you will need to put the solar panel where it gets direct sunlight.
5. Check Your Local Laws
It is illegal to put up lights on your car and you could be cited, but always check to make sure what you can or can't do. Lights like these can be distracting to other drivers or even look like an emergency vehicle. You also might find that there are just certain light colors you can't use, or that it could be allowed for parade purposes. But again, always check local laws.
6. Always Work with Caution
You are, after all, working with electrical components, so you should always keep safety in mind. Put up the lights during dry weather and keep children away while doing so. This is all to prevent electrical shocks from the wires to you or your children.
For information on maintenance and repairs, visit our How-To section here at JK-Forum.com!