LED Turnsignal Replacements

[crashfaster]

I've read all of the previous posts on replacing turnsignal bulbs with LEDs, and I just want to make sure I order the right parts.
I've installed a Signalminder to handle the different voltage, but I don't want to plunk down cash for something that won't work.
I found this site (http://www.hid-lights.com) that offers LEDs in many different configuarations.
Here are the two form factors that <i>look</i> like they will fit...can anyone confirm or deny?
1156 LED Light 12V 24W, 18 LEDs Per Bulb
and
1156 LED Light 12V 24W, 20 LEDs Per Bulb
Thanks!

[jb44]

Yes, they will fit. I'm using similar ones (w/Signalminder). They work fine for me.

jb

[crashfaster]

Thanks! I ordered the 20 bulb configuration. I'll post how they worked out when I get them!

[Nakigara]

Do you NEED to have a signalminder to use these bulbs?

Dan

[jb44]

Do you NEED to have a signalminder to use these bulbs?

Dan, I'm not sure. I had the Signalminder long before I put in the LED bulbs.

I think I remember reading that the LEDs did not have enough resistance/current draw for the stock flasher to operate properly. But again, I am not positive.

I'm not at home right now, and won't be for a couple of weeks, or I would try the stock flasher with the LEDs for you.

jb

[touchton]

You either have to have the SignalMinder or some sort of load module for the LED replacement bulbs to work. Their electrical characteristics are different than the incandescent bulbs so they won't work with the stock turn signal relay.

I don't know how much the load module will cost, and you'll most likely need two (one for the left and one for the right). If you don't already have one, it's a good reason to get the SignalMinder.

[Nakigara]

How much is the signalminder? I remember it being at least $150. That seems a little steep for something that will turn off my blinkers.

Dan

[NoRRmad]

$99.95

http://www.cyclegadgets.com/products/pr ... sp?Item=SM

For the R1150R, you need model SM-5. Also, it allows you to cancel turn signals by pressing the same button that started the signal, and fast-flashes the signal until you release the button. You can configure the signal lights to stay on at a reduced intensity as running lights. It's pretty neat.

[NachtRitter]

You can configure the signal lights to stay on at a reduced intensity as running lights. It's pretty neat.

That's the part I like the most... they provide additional visibility at night. I also like that they integrate well with the BMW signal switches... that is, to program the intensity of the lights, you turn the ignition and hold down the cancel button (or something like that... don't take my word for how to do this, read the instructions ). In any case, much easier than digging under the seat to adjust DIP switches.

[crashfaster]

OK...I installed the LEDs tonight, and have mixed feelings.

I bought the "amber" colored bulbs, but the light cast is closer to yellow, which was a pleasant surprise (it matches my Yellow Jacket).

I also like the fact that the bulbs are clear (white) when they are off, so paired with my Clear Alternatives (clear) turnsignal lenses they look a lot cleaner than the amber-tinted standard bulbs.

The problem is...they are about half as bright as the standard bulbs. After installing and being extremely pleased with the BRAKE! LED brake light, I guess I was expecting a higher level of light output.

Oh well. I've attached a picture so that you can judge the difference for yourselves.

[NK ED]

Crashfaster

I would like to know which LED tail light you installed? Was it the 32 LED light bulb (offered from the company your turn signals came from) or the circuit board that Pirate's Lair offers?

Mike

[crashfaster]

It was the 20 Bulb light that I gave the link to in the start of the thread. I didn't know the Pirate had LED turnsignals...do you have a link?
In retrospect, I think the reason the these particular lights are not as bright as the BRAKE! cluster is that the bulbs are positioned around a cylinder, which difuses the brightness and reduces the optimal viewing angle a bit (even with a reflector).

[Nakigara]

Here's some really cool stuff.

http://www.nippynormans.com/products.asp?dept=217

Dan

[colinpollock]

I installed some of these on my R1150R about 2 months ago.

http://www.eurotechmotorsports.com/form ... 20101%2D02

After comparison to the factory bulbs, I too found the LED's were not as bright as the standard bulb. Off they came and back to the dealer they went. Too bad, because they are custom designed for the R1150R signal light housing and include a load resistor on the back so you don't need to add one elsewhere.

[NK ED]

Here is the link to the LED taillight kit from Pirate's Lair



http://piratesk12site.net/R1150RProduct.htm