Instructions for replacing the sideview mirror bulbs with LEDs.
For this mod, I used 10MM 1W LEDs which draw 300mA each. Four per side with a 1/4 watt 2 ohm resistor.
Remove light housing from the mirror by releasing the retaining clip and unplugging the wires.
Unscrew the two screws and separate the parts. Remove the bulb.
Solder four LEDs together after bending the posts and trimming the extra length.
Solder the resistor to the positive end of the LED row. Cut a piece of electrical tape and fold it over the LED posts to insulate. Carefully insert the LEDs between the bulb retaining clip. It will be a tight fit since the LEDs don't fit in the same as the bulb. Make a good physical connection with the bulb retaining clips and the LED/resistor leads. You won't be able to heat up the brass clips enough to effectively take solder without damaging the parts. Put a small amount of solder on the leads just to help the connection.
The brass clips are now spread wider than with the bulb, so it is difficult to insert back in to the housing. (but it will fit). Once together, screw the two screws back in. Use a 12V power source to make sure it works before reinstalling in the truck. Use a multi-meter to verify polarity on the vehicle wires before reconnecting.
BEFORE
AFTER
For this mod, I used 10MM 1W LEDs which draw 300mA each. Four per side with a 1/4 watt 2 ohm resistor.
Remove light housing from the mirror by releasing the retaining clip and unplugging the wires.
Unscrew the two screws and separate the parts. Remove the bulb.
Solder four LEDs together after bending the posts and trimming the extra length.
Solder the resistor to the positive end of the LED row. Cut a piece of electrical tape and fold it over the LED posts to insulate. Carefully insert the LEDs between the bulb retaining clip. It will be a tight fit since the LEDs don't fit in the same as the bulb. Make a good physical connection with the bulb retaining clips and the LED/resistor leads. You won't be able to heat up the brass clips enough to effectively take solder without damaging the parts. Put a small amount of solder on the leads just to help the connection.
The brass clips are now spread wider than with the bulb, so it is difficult to insert back in to the housing. (but it will fit). Once together, screw the two screws back in. Use a 12V power source to make sure it works before reinstalling in the truck. Use a multi-meter to verify polarity on the vehicle wires before reconnecting.
BEFORE
AFTER
