MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS
icemann
Posted 2014-10-17 5:50 PM (#167360)
Subject: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
Got fed up with everyone's high prices.

Took the tail lights off the bike. Didn't have to remove the trunk or the lay flat license plate.

Used a sequencer for a chase pattern. Used a trailer light converter kit used for 2 light trailers.

CLick to see

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10154802713375157



Edited by icemann 2014-10-17 6:05 PM




(2014-10-17 15.42.51-1.jpg)



(20140925_203943.jpg)



(20140925_204145.jpg)



(tail light 2 (Small).jpg)



(tail light 3.jpg)



(tail light 4.jpg)



(tail light 5.jpg)



(tail light 6.jpg)



(tail light 7.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 2014-10-17 15.42.51-1.jpg (35KB - 25 downloads)
Attachments 20140925_203943.jpg (33KB - 11 downloads)
Attachments 20140925_204145.jpg (52KB - 8 downloads)
Attachments tail light 2 (Small).jpg (489KB - 10 downloads)
Attachments tail light 3.jpg (34KB - 8 downloads)
Attachments tail light 4.jpg (35KB - 8 downloads)
Attachments tail light 5.jpg (24KB - 10 downloads)
Attachments tail light 6.jpg (35KB - 10 downloads)
Attachments tail light 7.jpg (30KB - 11 downloads)
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nailer
Posted 2014-10-17 6:10 PM (#167361 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: RE: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Nice job! What did it end up costing you?
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Don07tncav
Posted 2014-10-17 6:13 PM (#167362 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 207
Great job!
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johnnyvision
Posted 2014-10-17 6:19 PM (#167363 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Visionary

Posts: 4278
would love to have sequencer lights but can find what relays a guy would use
can you help?
Love your lights
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Lotzafun
Posted 2014-10-17 11:17 PM (#167366 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Iron Butt

Posts: 935
Rockford, IL
Oh wow.....

I likey

Shut up and take my money !
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2014-10-18 5:25 AM (#167367 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
Yeah I wanted to know the samething. What was the Total ending cost?
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willtill
Posted 2014-10-18 7:52 AM (#167368 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Visionary

Posts: 1365
Central Maryland
Yes, if you could post a parts list and sources... this would be great!
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ljurgens
Posted 2014-10-18 2:36 PM (#167370 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 341
West Salem, WI United States
Iceman, those are very nice. Would you be willing to post a write-up on how to build them with a parts list etc? I think quite a few of us would jump at the chance to do this!
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-21 2:04 AM (#167400 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
Basically used strips of leds, like whats on the roll. Cut to length. Just like any other LED project on a bike. Used super bright leds. add an LED sequencer. Pick the pattern you want. mine was chase. Put the sequencer on the turn signal wire. Make sure the leds are all laying the same direction. Hook all wires together to the chaser. Could of got fancy with it but didn't. So all leds chase away. Used a trailer wire kit/integrator for the tail lights/brake lights. used a diode inline.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIpK6yx4uDI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8g_06NJEkc

doesn't apply to bikes but a how to for led strips. Since LEDS on a bike are 12v. don't need all the other crap.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LK8S8apBy8

This is my next project.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2o6w0ryH2dw


Edited by icemann 2014-10-21 2:15 AM
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ljurgens
Posted 2014-10-21 7:32 AM (#167402 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 341
West Salem, WI United States
A few questions:
1. What did you use for the backing board?
2. What color LED lights did you use, just a plain roll of 5050 lights?
3. 1 controller runs both tail lights?
4. Could you create a diagram for us?
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Rowebote
Posted 2014-10-21 8:33 AM (#167404 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 62
Eagan, MN United States
instead of a brake controller could you use something like Back-Off XP or Backoff in addition to Tristar? Not sure if the Tristart would be necessary. Is the brake controller acting as the resistance for the different light intensities or did you add in resistors? Thanks for the info and inspirations!
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-26 2:29 AM (#167457 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
First here are two videos. both are similar to get the idea across.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfNZ4YXCy3s

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yrvmEUMFGo


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
two diodes, make tail and brake lights. pretty simple. or two diodes make tail and turn signals. Just make "3 diodes".

One diode for tail light wire
one diode for brake light wire
one diode for turn signal wire.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
using a trailer converter kit. you go from bikes brake light wire to trailer converter brake light wire input. same for tail lights, turn signals etc.

coming out of the converter. tail lights to resister side of diode.. Brake light coming out of converter to kisan flasher then to diode #2. coming out of trailer converter for turn signal (left side unit) goes to led sequencer or kisan flasher module, then to diode #3. Then do the same thing for the right side.

Make it up on a bench with a row of 20 led's cut off a strip or a 5 leds. doesn't matter. Then you can play with it.

jd
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-26 2:32 AM (#167458 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
Here is something different for the stock lights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vrx4XiIdoKA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcdy0dVklXo
--------------------------------------------------------------

how to cut led strips for lengths.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTRLt-fzTwg


Edited by icemann 2014-10-26 2:45 AM
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willtill
Posted 2014-10-26 7:02 AM (#167464 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Visionary

Posts: 1365
Central Maryland
Iceman, those are excellent video's explaining the concept(s) on how to construct these Rear LED lights.






Edited by willtill 2014-10-26 7:03 AM
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-26 6:11 PM (#167471 - in reply to #167402)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
ljurgens - 2014-10-21 7:32 AM

A few questions:
1. What did you use for the backing board?
2. What color LED lights did you use, just a plain roll of 5050 lights?
3. 1 controller runs both tail lights?
4. Could you create a diagram for us?
1# The backing board. Flimsy plastic. Lay the chrome housing upside down on the plastic and trace it. Trim it out with exacto knife till it fits the shape of the housing. Make sure when seated down in it can fit under the red lens. Again doesn't have to be perfect. Think Ice cream sandwich with LEDS in the middle.

Thin plastic to stick all the LEDS too. Lay some carbon or trace paper over the top of it and rub trace it out to make an outline/pattern. Get another piece of thin cut to shape plastic and tape the trace paper to it. Use an exacto knife and spend all day cutting out each little square. "make an "X" and then trim the 4 sides. doesn't have to be perfect. Just need the LED to shine thru. You could also just drill it. Again doesn't have to be perfect. Lay the top piece over the LEDS that's stuck to the bottom piece. Silicone all the way around the edges which will make it somewhat stiff. Fit that onto the chrome housing. Run all wires out of the back. I put the controller behind it. TEST TEST TEST. Then use the silicone to glue the sandwich into place all the way around the edges. Then Glue the lens back on with silicone. Seal the back with gummy tape. (got mine from a direct tv installer. its what they put under the mount for sat dishes on roofs.)
#2. I used white since it was the brightest.
#3. 1 Controller in the left. 1 Controller in the right. Just piggy back everything and don't use 1/2 of it for each.
#4. See videos.

hope it helps. make a small one with 2-3 mini rows of leds and play with it first. Even if you unplugged just the turn signals and used a small one. Or just the brake light bulbs and used a small one. Looks great.

Much cheaper than those other similar ones for $6-$700 bucks.

JD
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johnnyvision
Posted 2014-10-26 6:23 PM (#167473 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Visionary

Posts: 4278
Please tell me what would I use to make my stock bulbs into a sequnshial blinking light if you know
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RoadCap1
Posted 2014-10-26 7:03 PM (#167474 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 13
I have a squencial harness I bought from the vision-mod website. It works good. I am going to take it off when I do the led lights, I will sell you mine if you are not in a hurry?
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nailer
Posted 2014-10-27 8:18 AM (#167483 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: RE: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
I understand how you made the led panels but not how you wired the LED sequencer. I ordered an LED Magician ($39 + shipping) and will see if I can figure out the rest. I will document the build process step by step. This will be a good winter project.
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-28 10:01 PM (#167510 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
The sequencer I used offered "MODES". all on, all flash, all chase. slow fast etc. Once set, it holds that position all the time. I suppose you could easily use one of these. Then just make it water tight. Hook all leds to it. One for the left, one for the right. Use the turn signal wire as the 12+. put it in chase mode. white leds.

http://www.parts-express.com/44-key-led-control-unit-with-ir-remote...

Edited by icemann 2014-10-28 10:02 PM
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Davet
Posted 2014-10-29 1:58 AM (#167511 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 33
Sacramento, CA United States
Icemann, you've really inspired some of us to pursue this cool modification in a new direction! Instead of looking for the least expensive and/or most available LED tail-light system on the market it's very challenging to fabricate one of your own. Kudos to you for generating such interest.

I've been pouring over questions posed to you 'bout your LED tail-light and your answers. Now I have a few of my own...

1. I gather you're driving a quad-row set of LEDs per channel from the sequencer but are the commons (negative side) of the LEDs tied together?

2. When applying the brake voltage through the diode from the trailer kit converter is the common going from the LEDs back to the sequencer board or is there another common tying all the LED strips together?

3. Are you using a communal positive from the sequencer or individual positive wires per channel from the sequencer?

I appreciate your patience with this process we're going through and value all of our advice in this matter. As I continue to research I may come up with yet more questions... thank you for your help.
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-31 7:03 AM (#168528 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
the sequencers vary. some. you may have several "channels". if you tied a stip of led's to each channel, then each WHOLE STRIP would light on then off and then move to the next whole strip on then off, then move. so instead of individual leds on off in a chase you get large amounts of light that chase. This model doesn't work well as you want the WHOLE thing to chase together. In my case. ALL LEDS are wired together. pos to pos, neg to neg making one LARGE LIGHT UP LED AREA.

So for example the one from parts express above. its more of an IR led controller so you can use a remote to make changes. It just happens to have a "MODE" that allows the leds to run or chase, and another mode is to GROW GLOW or go from dim to bright to brighter to brighter to full bright and repeat.

So if you were to hook all your leds together and then connect that in line between the power and the leds, and leave it in grow glow mode for example. every time you applied the power on the whole panel would glow grow like a pulsing turn signal so to speak. or if you used the chase mode, and all LEDS were running the same way up the panel and you hooked all power wires together. chase would go upward then repeat.

With that thought. you would come off the turn signal wire for that side to the IR module from parts express which the output would go to the diode that went to the LEDS as (turn). so when you hit the turn signal on the bike it would apply voltage to the turn wire from the trailer controller which would go to the controller which would go thru the diode to prevent it from back feeding to the other wires tail light and brake, which is hooked to the LED panel and cause it to chase away.

something to play with if all that made sense. My sequencer came off of an LED panel that basically all channels chased away at the same time. So I could hook up one channel to the tail light, and say another channel to the trunk, and another to the front etc. I just used one channel.

Again, make a small set up on a bench and tape it down to a piece of card board to play with. 3-5 leds for each row. 4-5 rows would be enough to play with using a battery on a battery tender or a 12v supply.

Once you think you have something that you like. run longer leads over to the bike and "tap on" to test one side. The wire harness is under the seat, passenger side, above the space where the XM module would go.

#1. yes, in my case however my sequencer has a 12v input, and individual channel 12v outputs with both plus and minus. that $9 from parts express would be a better start. small. (1"x1"x1"

#2. common is common. since the brake controller is tied to ground, (the battery or a screw). the leds can go to the battery or a screw. mine is a little different. I ran power from the ignition and ground to my tie in point so I used it to power the inverter. The bike signal wires are just triggering it.

#3. depends if the seq has +/- outputs or just + output.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xNouVvuzrU/UZdgWHEEayI/AAAAAAAAGlY/4OB-B...

Edited by icemann 2014-10-31 7:32 AM




(Connection Diagram - 12 Channel Out 12V.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments Connection Diagram - 12 Channel Out 12V.jpg (98KB - 6 downloads)
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-31 7:03 AM (#168529 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgsKKGZRizY

this is the BIG version of the parts express model. remember you need one for each side.

If you just used a single color LED say white, it would chase on its own.



Edited by icemann 2014-10-31 7:06 AM
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-31 7:17 AM (#168530 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
watch the video it shows the parts express style controller. "www.aliexpress.com" look up leds strips for kits very cheap.

https://www.torchstar.biz/detail.php?id=509


aliexpress

http://www.aliexpress.com/premium/led-strips.html?ltype=wholesale&S...



Edited by icemann 2014-10-31 7:19 AM
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icemann
Posted 2014-10-31 7:27 AM (#168531 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
I still think now the LED magician would be the most creative. Using Tracing Transience mode. (goto video section and watch tracing mode)

http://www.ledmagician.com/p/videos.html

http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&c...



Edited by icemann 2014-10-31 7:36 AM
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nailer
Posted 2014-11-02 5:39 PM (#168545 - in reply to #168531)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
I hooked up the Led magician and it'll do a nice job with the sequencing. It can't do brakes, running lights, along with sequencing. My next thought is interlacing three separate rows of LEDs to perform the three functions. This would require alot of LEDs possibly ruling out using 3m strip LEDs. 240 LEDs per meter are the most dense combo I've found. Need to make a tail light board pattern and layout the LEDs and see what it looks like. Brake lights will control horizontal row 2,5,7, etc.., running lights will controll rows 3,6,9, etc.. Led magician will control rows 1,4,8, etc... I know the round old two lead style solder in LEDs will provide the dense pattern required and they are cheap but a lot of soldering will be required.
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Davet
Posted 2014-11-06 4:58 AM (#168568 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 33
Sacramento, CA United States
Iceman,

Now that I've seen the diagram I understand better how it's wired. Also, after reading nailer's response I understand that the turn signal will work with the sequencer but, (since the commons are already back-fed to the board) only a sequencer wired such a way would work. That is... running lighting and brake lighting using the same rows of LEDs won't work (even with a check diode). That was the jest of my question #2.

And, you're right--much depends on the type of sequencer selected.

I'm really trying to create something now with the best of ALL worlds (as nailer's trying to do also I guess)--running lights (in a dim mode for vehicle visibility), brake lights (using the Kisan trailBlazer for added alertness), and the sequencer for turn signals only. ALL of the these combinations powering the same LED strips. As nailer mentioned, it can happen if individual rows of LEDs are used (odd/even) but, how do you build something using all 3 functions in same LED rows?

In answer to johnnyvision's question about turning stock lighting into a chasing sequence checkout:

http://www.vision-mod.com/

Iceman,

Thank you very much for the inspiration. The trailer light isolator's a great idea. I understand the Vision's flasher module is quite temperamental so separating the lighting circuit from the bike is a very good idea. I've heard the flasher module goes for $250 so loading it down and blowing it would be an expensive lesson.

One more thing... did you lay your rows of lights horizontally or vertically on the rear light?




Edited by Davet 2014-11-06 5:28 AM
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Davet
Posted 2014-11-06 5:15 AM (#168569 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 33
Sacramento, CA United States
To nailer,

To build the 3-function LED lighting circuit (running, braking, turning) it's not necessary to build 3 rows of alternating rows of LEDs (as you've described). You can keep the LEDs dense but only use 2 rows... if you use the even rows of LEDs for the sequencer circuit then the odd rows can have the +12V wired through diodes for braking and running lights. The odd row of LEDs would have the commons married together then a diode with a resistor ('bout 300 Ohm) coming out of the trailer isolator running light circuit to the positive side of the same rows. Coming out of the trailer converter's braking circuit go through another diode and connect that with the positive side of the odd rows of LEDs (parallel to the running light circuit on the same set of LEDs). My understanding of the Vision's running light vs braking light circuit is they're not ON at the same time. So, the power issue is solved using the trailer converter and the diodes prevent back-feed.

It's just an idea but, it permits more lights with less work....




Edited by Davet 2014-11-06 5:18 AM
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nailer
Posted 2014-11-06 2:29 PM (#168572 - in reply to #168569)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Davet,

Thanks for the response and the idea of two rows -vs- three with the resistor/diode combo to prevent back-feed. As for running the led strips, I have seen some strips with enough space between the individual led's to run another strip perpendicular within that gap. Horizontal rows for the sequencer and vertical rows for the running lights/brake lights. From the outside of the lens, the leds would look more symmetrical.

It looks like you and I are the only ones that are going run with this project. I ride year round so I'm hesitant to remove my tail lights and split them to make a template for the led mounting board. Anyone know the cost of replacement tail lights and the PN# for the trailer converter?

Edited by nailer 2014-11-06 2:31 PM
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Davet
Posted 2014-11-08 1:35 AM (#168608 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 33
Sacramento, CA United States
Nailer...

Converters are $13-$50 (check Amazon--Trailer Converters).

I understand the reluctance in disassembling the lights. I also ride year 'round as well (NorCal--NOT SAMCRO territory that's more SoCal). I've had my lights apart to install an LED license plate frame and patched into the lighting harness once already. The lens can be removed, a template made then, the lens can be reassembled with hot melt glue (which can be removed later if you use the right kind) in a matter of hours. After the template's made you can work on LED light arrangement at your leisure.

Light assemblies from Ma Vic are $118 ea. (right side P/N: 2410669, left side P/N: 2410621).

Keep the Shiny Side UP!

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icemann
Posted 2014-11-08 6:50 AM (#168610 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
Guys sorry, im moving and today is the last day in this house. Got behind. To answer your thoughts and comments. (out of order).

The led magician will work fine for turn signals. and that's ok.

You can also use the diodes. Put one diode inline on each positive wire of the led strip. to prevent voltage from going backwards to the led magician board.

Tie or jump all the positive wires together (after the diode and before the LED (see photo)).
Tie or jump all the negative wires together the same way for the neg side.
This will give you two wires coming from the leds. A 12v plus and 12v minus wires. Without going thru the led magician board.

RUN THESE TWO WIRES over the the tail/light brake light. (which would be picture #2).

You now have two wires that will power the leds separate. if you put 12v on these new two wires the leds will all light up without the led magician in the loop.

now take two DIODES tie the ends together (the ends with the stripe on)
The striped ends together will go to the LED POS wire.

USE one of the two diodes and go to the tail light power which will light all LEDS.
USE the other diode goto the brake light flasher circuit. Which will flash all the LEDS.

So you have three circuits all separated by diodes to keep each one isolated and use ALL LEDS.

(SEE THE GREEN WIRE SECTION)


Edited by icemann 2014-11-08 7:16 AM




(Connection Diagram - 12 Channel Out 12V.jpg)



(wire.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments Connection Diagram - 12 Channel Out 12V.jpg (57KB - 17 downloads)
Attachments wire.jpg (45KB - 4 downloads)
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ljurgens
Posted 2014-11-08 7:14 AM (#168611 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 341
West Salem, WI United States
Nailer, I think there are others here like me who want to do this project. I'm just sort of waiting a bit to get into winter here in WI and to really try to comprehend exactly what to do. You are Davet are asking great questions and I don't want to get in the middle of that and complicate it!
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icemann
Posted 2014-11-08 7:28 AM (#168612 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
you will need two led magicians. one for the left and one for the right tail lights.

in the diode section where the two diodes are tied together. If you add a third diode. you can run your 4 way flashers off the bike to diode #3 which will then loop back and fire up or power up both LED MAGICIANS at the same time to have chasing 4 way flashers.

SEE EASY
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nailer
Posted 2014-11-12 3:34 PM (#168682 - in reply to #168612)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
thanks icemann,

What pn# diode did you use? (I was thinking of using 1N4004's)

Edited by nailer 2014-11-12 3:34 PM
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icemann
Posted 2014-11-12 7:47 PM (#168687 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
should work just fine. did it make sense the three diodes as input separators?
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Davet
Posted 2014-11-14 2:30 AM (#168706 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 33
Sacramento, CA United States
Back on 10-29, I asked a question 'bout the commons being tied together because I found an alternative circuit in the LED Magician manual which simplified wiring but also introduced a new dilemma... if the positives are tied together (as in the drawing) then the LED Magician's a common-collector transistor circuits' are actually switching the common side of the LED's not the positive side. How can this work if using a single source with switching commons? Then tying the commons together to eliminate the LED Magician's common-collector switching while using the Kisan flasher or dropping resistor for the running lights?

Using the single positive leg from the LED Magician makes installing a diode much easier than installing a matrix of diodes (agreed)? Which makes me question where the source goes after passing through the LEDs?

Frankly, the holidays have my time monopolized so I won't be buying or building anything 'til after the new year. I'm very enthused by Iceman's ideas and am looking forward to experimenting with lighting strips in the future. I'm grateful to all who have contributed in this discussion as it has: informed me, taught me, and looks like saved me some money. This discussion's helped me narrow down my parts list and showed me what to focus on in trying different circuits. Thanks to all for the help!


Edited by Davet 2014-11-14 2:42 AM




(LED Magician 1 Positive Output Wiring.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments LED Magician 1 Positive Output Wiring.jpg (63KB - 6 downloads)
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nailer
Posted 2015-03-14 12:22 PM (#170233 - in reply to #168545)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Hey iceman,

I've got the rear panels ready to install. The vertical led strips are running lights/brake lights. I used a 9 volt regulator to get the dimmer running lights. Tying in the brake light voltage to the running lights puts 12v on them when the brakes are applied. The horizontal LEDs are the turn signals. The turn signal voltage powers up the led magician and to display the set sequencing pattern.
The trailer light converter won't work in my application. I'll probably have to use a load resistor. Works great on my power supply. Need to figure out how to wire it up on my vision. Thanks for the inspiration. Will post a link to the video when completed.



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icemann
Posted 2015-03-24 1:46 AM (#171425 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
lol, that's how the back of mine looked. Once its inside the LENS you don't see any of it. I do recommend putting the "circuit" into a plastic project box of sorts.

What an outstanding job. So for bike connections. if you follow the stock wire up the passenger side of the bike, the PLUG IN harness is under the seat along the passenger side rail. Easy access. If I am correct you basically have "3" positive wires coming out of each light housing plus the ground. You just have to tap each of the 3 circuits under the seat that goes "HOT" with respect to brake, tail, turn. I cant wait to see them. GREAT JOB!
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ljurgens
Posted 2015-03-24 7:15 AM (#171429 - in reply to #171425)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 341
West Salem, WI United States

Looking good, can't wait for the video!

Could you make a template of the backer piece before you install? And what material did you use for that?

I haven't seen LED strips like those, can you share your part#'s and source?

 

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icemann
Posted 2015-03-24 6:53 PM (#171446 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
slow down. ok. you have power and ground leading to the chaser. it has connections to the lights. SO. IF you came from the tail light wire plus and minus. Minus is easy. Use a diode from the brake plus wire and on a lead to each LED you want to light strand you want to light up as Brake. If you have diodes in line from the chaser as well you wont get cross over or back power. so chaser out to diode to led 1. new diode on led 2. new diode on #3 etc. then the brake light wire to a diode and a jumper to each set of leds. but connect the brake lines to AFTER the chaser diodes not before. that way the brake will not go backwards and chase.
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nailer
Posted 2015-03-24 10:16 PM (#171453 - in reply to #171446)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Got it wired up and working. All seems OK, cruise control is working. Didn't need a load resistor. Undid the middle brake light mod and removed the middle bulbs. The heat from them was too close to the led magician. Not real happy with vertical/horizontal LED alignment. I will use solderable perf board and 5mm flat top leds on the front lenses which will require a lot more soldering but the results will be more like MBW's.


2008 Victory Vision rear tail light sequencing LED: https://youtu.be/pAu9p8NqNDk
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ljurgens
Posted 2015-03-25 7:28 AM (#171455 - in reply to #171453)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 341
West Salem, WI United States

Looks good nailer, nice work. I see what you mean about the alignment, but most people won't notice that.

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nailer
Posted 2015-03-25 10:30 AM (#171458 - in reply to #171455)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Some of that misalignment is the angle I recorded at and the tail light lens itself. The red lens has variations in thickness and ribs that make the leds look out of alignment. I will work on putting a list of materials/source/cost in the Tech Forum later this week. This is not a project for the faint of heart. Basic DC electronics knowledge required. It's not easy working with the LED strips since their spacing is fixed. Alot of soldering is required and your workmanship must be excellent or your going to run into reliability issues down the road. My estimate is around $150 for the project plus many hours of build time.

Sorry for the multiple posts earlier...Damn tablet is so slow!

Edited by nailer 2015-03-25 10:34 AM
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icemann
Posted 2015-03-26 12:29 AM (#171474 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
Couple of things. Take another solid piece of pcb or plastic you used. Drill out the holes to make your aligned pattern and lay it over the top of the light panel inside. silicone the edges as if its a sandwich. All of the light will be forced thru your holes. Your alignment will/cant be seen. Solves that problem.

Add a flasher, or digital flasher inline on the brake light wire. It will cause the brakes to pulse. The digital one goes from fast flash to solid. Easy fix.

Or slight smoke tint the lens, which is sweet too.

Great job, proud of you. Great video.

He's right by the way it is not for the faint heart. However knowing YOU DID IT YOURSELF, and it cost me about $125.00 and a whole heap a time.

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nailer
Posted 2015-03-26 12:42 PM (#171491 - in reply to #171474)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Thanks, going to your idea a step further. I'm working on redoing the tail lights like this blank trunk light PCB design. I made a cable with 4 channels from the led magician that I'll run to the trunk lights. They will sequence in unison with the tail lights. Also plan on removing the mode & speed adj buttons on the led magician and put them on an external pcb to allow changes to the sequence modes.

Edited by nailer 2015-03-26 12:49 PM




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icemann
Posted 2015-03-26 9:00 PM (#171503 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
I thought about that as I love the gadgetry behind it. However I stopped when I realized my bike has been apart since May 30th. OK June 7th, and this is almost April. I figured once I got it working and it looked nice, Ill never change it. And Ill never make another one.

JD
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icemann
Posted 2015-09-09 3:42 PM (#174747 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
nailer AN UPDATE PLEASE!

ICE
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nailer
Posted 2015-09-10 1:22 PM (#174759 - in reply to #174747)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Not ready to cut up the trunk lights to install the pcb's with such great riding weather. Will do the font lenses also this winter.
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nailer
Posted 2016-02-12 9:22 PM (#178732 - in reply to #174759)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED FRONT LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Just finished one side of of my front turn signals. 227 hand soldered led's. I must be nuts.


Edited by nailer 2016-02-12 9:39 PM




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icemann
Posted 2016-06-14 3:38 AM (#184673 - in reply to #167360)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Cruiser

Posts: 167
, OH
glad it worked out
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nailer
Posted 2016-07-05 1:05 PM (#186300 - in reply to #184673)
Subject: Re: MADE MY OWN LED TAIL LIGHTS


Tourer

Posts: 366
Albuquerque, NM
Hey iceman,

The individual LEDs didn't work out. Too many wires/connections. As careful wiring/soldering as I was, I've taken them apart 3 times to fix intermittent issues. No more! I'm going back to led strips. Will post a video on you tube when done.

Question for you: I used 6 ohm/20W resistors to get the flash rate normal. Found that the resistors heat up really hot in a short time even mounted on large aluminum heatsinks. What's the highest value resistor I can get away with that doesn't draw so much current. Thought you may know. Wish I had a large potentiometer.

Saw you moved over to the vog.net. This site is getting kind of boring. Don't blame you. Saw your finished bike pics. Nice! Always liked the blue true-fire paint.

ride safe,
nailer

Sorry.....meant to pm you on this.

Edited by nailer 2016-07-05 1:07 PM
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