Author Topic: Led's in the luggage rack  (Read 1842 times)

Offline CHL2T

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Led's in the luggage rack
« on: April 02, 2010 - 02:02:18 AM »
All this talk about led taillights got me thinking about doing something a little different.

Since I have installed the luggage rack on the cuda and it (the rack) is missing the end plugs, I think I want to install led tail/ stop and signals instead of the plugs.

To accomplish this seemingly insane task, I plan on first purchasing these: http://www.theledlight.com/MicroStar.html or something similar and hopefully a little cheaper. The shank on these will be too long as the ends of the rack are only 3/4 or so. I'll finger that out when I get there

Next I'll remove and disassemble the rack, drill extra holes next to the upright screws to get into the rear top bar, thread the wires from there to each "foot" drill an extra hole in the decklid and thread to the existing trunk light cutout. From there it's just simple wiring (hopefully).

I'll keep ya posted, but it may need to be a next winter project unless "this" winter keeps dragging on, in which case, it may happen sooner rather than later :smilielol:

Here is a "paint" rendition.......lol
« Last Edit: April 02, 2010 - 02:04:04 AM by HANDM »




Offline ShelbyDogg

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #1 on: April 02, 2010 - 01:58:25 PM »
Might look good as a 3rd brake light with hyper bright LEDs in them. I don't know about always on though.
Rob

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Offline ChallengerHK

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #2 on: April 02, 2010 - 02:31:47 PM »
Might look good as a 3rd brake light with hyper bright LEDs in them. I don't know about always on though.
I think I agree with this. If you really wanted to get insane, you could rig them to sequential flash on turning  :)


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Offline ragtopdodge

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #3 on: April 02, 2010 - 04:29:52 PM »
THey sell luggage rack tips.  R/T specialties or ebay.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/MOPAR-Luggage-Rack-tips-70-71-Challenger-Cuda-Charger_W0QQitemZ330419311752QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMotors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item4cee869488

However, it may be kinda cool to drill small holes in the caps and place in LED bulbs in there.  That way they look finished but also look diff.

If you have a '72+ w/round lights, replace the reverse lens with regular lens and wire so all four come on when braking.

BTW, these guys sell cheap LED conversion kits:

New England Rod and RestorationInc. [mailto:sherrick1@maine.rr.com]

Got a set for the '71 'Cuda.  Only $70.00 and BRIGHT as HECK when I tested them. :thumbsup:

'70 318-auto Chally 'vert
'71 383-auto 'Cuda 'vert (sold)
06 300c SRT8
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Offline Moparal

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #4 on: April 02, 2010 - 05:08:08 PM »
It's your car, but to much bling for me

Offline CHL2T

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #5 on: April 02, 2010 - 06:12:56 PM »
It's your car, but to much bling for me
Not really looking for bling, I just don't want to get rear-ended and have the idiot say he didn't see my brake lights.

Might look good as a 3rd brake light with hyper bright LEDs in them. I don't know about always on though.

You know, after thinking about it, I would prolly need an 1157 type led to have them always on and also have stop and signal. I may just go with the brakes and call it good.

I like the idea of just drilling some new caps and keep the original look.

This is all theorhetical of course, what with the paint and re-assembly of the Charger looming, I may not get to it till I actually start the paint/ bodywork on the Cuda next year

Offline Moparal

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #6 on: April 02, 2010 - 10:03:59 PM »
Well then, if it was me, I would put a letter in each red slot. Like P L Y M O U T H or  C U D A or B I G F I S H

Offline GoodysGotaCuda

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #7 on: April 02, 2010 - 10:08:46 PM »
bit much for me, but look into 4x4 stuff. I've seen ones that replace a lug nut, say on a jeep spare tire that may work for you..
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Offline CHL2T

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Re: Led's in the luggage rack
« Reply #8 on: April 02, 2010 - 10:26:30 PM »
Well then, if it was me, I would put a letter in each red slot. Like P L Y M O U T H or  C U D A or B I G F I S H

Ooooooo, now that's an idea!!! That would look facking awesome