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Hi-wattage replacement reverse lights...

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Discription: General Mobile Electronics Questions and Answers
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=6949
Printed Date: September 04, 2025 at 12:39 AM


Topic: Hi-wattage replacement reverse lights...

Posted By: Lee280zx
Subject: Hi-wattage replacement reverse lights...
Date Posted: December 21, 2002 at 7:55 AM

A company called design tech int'l. makes some reverse lights that are 50w (they let you really see what's behind you, in addition to making it easier for people to see you backing up).  They make them in a size to replace 1156 and newer wedge-type bulbs. 

I'd have two concerns using these.  First, I'd be concerned that the extra heat generated might melt the lens of the tail light.  I have a fair amount of clearance between the bulb and lens in my 280zx, but if I ever had them on for a longer period for whatever reason, could this be an issue?

Second, that has to be many times the draw of the original bulb.  Could the existing wiring and fuse handle that, or would I need to put a different fuse in?




Replies:

Posted By: Velocity Motors
Date Posted: December 21, 2002 at 8:38 AM

1. How long of a time frame will you be backing up ? For most people, you only back up for about 5 seconds and your back into normal forward gears.

2. The extra wattage is not a concern as much as the amperage that it draws. The difference between the OEM wattage and the newer bulbs is not a concern in my books.



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Jeff
Velocity Custom Home Theater
Mobile Audio/Video Specialist
Morden, Manitoba CANADA




Posted By: Lee280zx
Date Posted: December 21, 2002 at 8:46 AM

I agree with #1, but I do like to idiot proof my car.  I'm worried that maybe I'd have it in reverse with the engine not on sometime (before starting or after stopping), not remember that, and while preparing to leave the car or start it smell plastic burning and realize my mistake.

As to #2, the extra amperage is my concern (I don't know enough about electricity to even know that the extra wattage can cause a separate problem).  I don't understand your answer--is the extra amperage a concern?

Thanks for any additional info!





Posted By: Velocity Motors
Date Posted: December 21, 2002 at 8:56 AM
With the extra amperage on the line, your fuse ( depending on what is it rated for ) will blow everytime you put the car into reverse. This MAY NOT be a concern for the electrical load of this circuit. The only way to test this out is to install them and put the car into reverse ( while it's off of course ) and sit there and see how hot it gets after a couple of minutes and also see if the circuit supports the higher wattage bulbs.

-------------
Jeff
Velocity Custom Home Theater
Mobile Audio/Video Specialist
Morden, Manitoba CANADA





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