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Topic: LED replacement for side signal lights (Read 808 times) previous topic - next topic

LED replacement for side signal lights

I want to change out the 3157 incandescent side signal bulbs to LED. I need to know if it is a simple plug and play. I ASSUME it will be cool white, but I read that they can be amber, as well. Why would you install an amber bulb in an amber lens ?
Also, some sites suggest that I might have to change the resistance, in some manner. Anyone have a recommendation. They go from about $10/ bulb on Amazon to 10 for $19 on ebay. I have had luck with LED's on ebay, but don't have lots of time for delivery. Thanks








Glenn and Amy Beinfest
2001 36' U320
#5812
2014 Honda CRV

No Whining on the YACHT

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #1 –
The amber bulbs are for clear lenses
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #2 –

Glenn, double check the bulb base.  Most 3157 I see are the flat blade type base. Match the base.  Looks like what I in 2012 is no longer available, probably better ones now.  The flat blade bases work (in some cases) in the rear tail/turn/backup lights.  For the side marker/turn lights you need to make sure it is not too long.  Warm or cool will work.  Cool will be a bit brighter.  I used warm white. Mine are still working fine.

If the lens is colored use white light, same with marker lights.

You can replace the whole fixture.  Amazon.com: United Pacific Amber 18 LED Trailer Bus Mid Turn Signal Marker...
I have a pair of these that I want to mount near the rear wheels.  You can never have too many lights.

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
Roger Engdahl and Susan Green
2001 U320 3610 #5879 (Home2) - 2014 Jeep Cherokee or 2018 F150
Hastings, MN

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #3 –
Link below to what I used.  Still working perfectly.  At the time, I did not understand that you are supposed to use "white" bulbs behind "amber" lenses.  The LED bulbs I ordered were amber, but they are very bright, and seem to work fine.  They are also available in "white".

I don't think you will need to worry about the lower "resistance" of LED bulbs.  I have replaced all the external running lights on our coach with LEDs, and they all work fine with the stock OEM wiring.

Replacing GV Clearance Lights With LEDs
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #4 –
Thanks for the help. Roger....how do you trace down the correct wires to tap into, when you add those new lights??
Glenn and Amy Beinfest
2001 36' U320
#5812
2014 Honda CRV

No Whining on the YACHT

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #6 –
I have the lights and the project is waiting to happen.  My thinking is that I am going to tap into the rear tail and turn circuits and run new wires through the rear in a protective wire cover, (those corrugated plastic tubes) to the mid point or just ahead to the rear tires.  The hard part then is to get the wires where you want them.  I may go up through the floor into a cabinet base in the BR and then back through the wall at the floor line at a downward angle to come out abouve the waist trim strip.  Not easy.

I want a second side turn signal indicator.  People seem to be paying less attention than ever.  Give them all the warning I can.
Roger Engdahl and Susan Green
2001 U320 3610 #5879 (Home2) - 2014 Jeep Cherokee or 2018 F150
Hastings, MN

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #7 –
I have the same side  lights as Roger shows for signals and the same style ones for all clearance lights around coach. I have all led rear corner fixtures and strip red led lights above the corner ones. At night the rear end is like Vegas.
JohnH
Coachless, now use aircraft. 2003 Ford Travelair TC280 class C. Super shape. Just for 1 yr .
1994 Ford E350 ClassC,total renovation inside and out. Now sold.
2000 U295  36' Cummins 350 c/w Banks Stinger, Resonator upgrade,Solar, LED lites.Residential fridge with slide out pantry. Build 5674. Sold
ex 92 GV 022C ored Cummins. Sold
ex 95 GV240 cat 3116. Sold
2017 Mini cooper s & 2016 land Rover LR2 HSE  LUX.
jhaygarth@aol.com    SKP #130098
treat everyone as you would like to be.

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #8 –
Quote from: Roger & Susan in Home2 –
I want a second side turn signal indicator.  People seem to be paying less attention than ever.  Give them all the warning I can.
I added turn signal repeaters in the front wheel wells.  I think they help get the attention of drivers who are running along side our coach, but who cannot see the rear turn signals.  Handy for changing lanes on multi-lane highways.  I agree...more lights = good!

Amazon.com: 8" x 1" LED Utility Strip Light Amber Functional/Decoration Use...
As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: LED replacement for side signal lights

Reply #9 –
I like those lights Chuck! Look good.
Richard & Betty Bark & Keiko our Golden Doodle
2003 U320T 3820 PBDS
Build # 6215
MC # 16926
2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4X4 diesel