Spec-D Tail Light - Simple Turn Signal Mod (Improves Visibility)

[Intuit]

The turn signal is represented by just seven small LEDs.
This can present visibility issues during the day.

The remedy? Change the reverse light socket, and the reverse light compartment can double as a turn signal.


Step-by-step:
1) Purchase the 3-wire 1157 socket.
https://www.amazon.com/uxcell-BAY15D-Signal-Harness-Connector/dp/B00LGKE4XM/
NOTE: Wire arrangement and colors in photo are different from shipped product.


2) Purchase an 1157 white/amber switchback LEDs.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085ZRQ43M

IMPORTANT: These particular LEDs flash 'amber-off-amber-off' instead of 'amber-white-amber-white' -- This means no reverse lights when hazards are activated. Feel free to post alternative LEDs that allow reverse with turn lights.​

3) Put your new LED into the new socket and test using a 12v battery source.

* Red wire = White light ​

* Green wire = Yellow light ​

* White/Black wire = Ground​

* but could be different if receive different sockets or/and LEDs from the above.​

4) Twist-out old socket, twist-in your NEW socket into the Spec-D housing.
5) At the OLD socket, cut off the black (ground) wire. Cut off the white (12v) wire.

* Connect NEW socket White/Black wire --to-- Spec-D Black wire. (Ground)​

* Connect NEW socket Red wire --to-- Spec-D White wire. (Reverse)​

* Connect NEW socket Green wire --to-- Spec-D Yellow wire. (TurnSig)​

6) Protect your connections against accidental shorting then activate ignition (no need to start engine) and test:

* Hazard Lights,​

* Left TurnSig, (no hyper-flash)​

* Right TurnSig, (no hyper-flash)​

* Reverse Lights (leave reverse engaged and re-check hazard, left turnsig, right turnsig)​

Photos:



Just three simple connections. (solder then wrap)




Use the information in this thread to keep the lights from fogging, after or during a rain.
https://www.fiestastforum.com/threads/spec-d-tail-light-gasket-build-and-moisture-removal.17646/
Repin Thread:
https://www.fiestastforum.com/threads/spec-d-led-re-pin-how-it-really-goes-down.16195/
The connector itself is entirely different from what's on the car, you'll need to harvest the harness/connector from either the junkyard, original lights, or auto-parts store.
Be sure to check and address water proofing on the body, around the four mounting holes + the black tape covering a body hole.

 

[remtodd]

Great idea. Now I'm thinking of doing it also.

 

[Overland History]

Great info, thanks for doing the leg work on this!

 

[Intuit]

Great idea. Now I'm thinking of doing it also.

Post-up if you locate LEDs that flash "amber-white-amber-white" instead of the "amber-off-amber-off".
That way you'd have some indication of reverse while the hazards are activated.