Turn signals to LEDs

  • superman960000
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03 Mar 2006 14:43 #27923 by superman960000
Turn signals to LEDs was created by superman960000
Want to change turn signals to LEDs Suggestions or has any one already done a switch to theirs.

Dave

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03 Mar 2006 16:38 #27954 by BSKZ650
Replied by BSKZ650 on topic Turn signals to LEDs
there are some lights that plug in, 1157, bulb to led type. only problem is they dont reduce the power draw.

77 kz650, owned for over 25 years
77 ltd1000, current rider
76 kz900, just waiting
73 z1,, gonna restore this one
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  • Biquetoast
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03 Mar 2006 16:47 #27957 by Biquetoast
Replied by Biquetoast on topic Turn signals to LEDs
superman960000 wrote:

Want to change turn signals to LEDs Suggestions or has any one already done a switch to theirs.

Dave


Yep! This is a common thing. Just get rid of the flasher unit, and get a "heavy-duty" (electronic instead of analog) flasher from the auto parts store.

I got my rear 1156s and front 1157s from some online source (eBay or something).

Remember that most LEDs are only bright when looking straight-on, so you may be disappointed since they don't light the stock fixture as well. Still glad I did it though.

If you want to replace the brake/tail light, make sure you get a really good one. I prefer Radiantz from Custom Dynamics .

(1.) '75/'76 KZ400D - Commuter
(2.) '78 KZ750B3 Twin - Commuter
(3.) '78 KZ750B3 Twin - Commuter
(4.) '75 KZ400D - Sold
kz750twins.com

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03 Mar 2006 17:23 #27960 by steell
Replied by steell on topic Turn signals to LEDs
BSKZ650 wrote:

there are some lights that plug in, 1157, bulb to led type. only problem is they dont reduce the power draw.


First time I have heard of this.

Quote from the website linked above:

5) Why do LEDs turn signals require the addition of a load equalizer or a non-load dependant flasher?

The turn signal unit or flasher is load dependent, it needs a certain amount of current to function. Many bikes are designed to flash at a faster rate if a bulb is burned out. Since LEDs draw much less current, your flasher unit may act as if a bulb is out and flash at the faster rate.


AFAIK there are two advantages to using LED lights, they last longer and draw less power, and you are saying one of those is wrong.

Can you substantiate your statement with links?

KD9JUR

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03 Mar 2006 18:19 #27982 by loudhvx
Replied by loudhvx on topic Turn signals to LEDs
the bright filament in an 1157 bulb uses 2 amps. You would need a minimum of about 50 to 100 LEDs to use up that much current. If they are hooked up correctly, you could light up 500 LED's with 2 amps at 12 volts.

Post edited by: loudhvx, at: 2006/03/03 21:20

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04 Mar 2006 15:17 #28213 by Vter Bob
Replied by Vter Bob on topic Turn signals to LEDs
I have converted all my turn signals to LED style using "Tower" type LED's I found from this company: autolumination.com/otherleds.htm
I am very happy with these bulbs so far as they are not as directional as other 1157 type replacement bulbs. You do definately nned to change to an electronic flasher unit. Usually around $6 at any auto parts store or WallyWorld even. B)

Georgia, Vermont

1981 KZ550 LTD
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1999 ZG1000 Concours

Greetings from the Peoples Republic of Vermont, home of Ethan Allen, 2 American Presidents, a socialist US Senator and.....Homer & Bart Simpson

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