Wiring

[Ben Nichols]

Hi All

As you may know I need to rewire my 914/4.

I've been think that whilst I doing it I may as well update it. I am thinking of running LED's all round (headlights, spotlights, fig lights, rear lights, gauges) basically the works, to try and keep the stress off the alternator and give me some proper lighting. I am also thinking of putting a USB socket in somewhere for charging phones etc.

I want to keep the look as original as possible but as its not a matching numbers car and running on 16's its not original but I intend to keep it for a long time and want it future proof to a degree. I've decided I'm going to do things once now and get it right the first time.

Has anyone upgraded to LED's and have any idea of what funky stuff I need in the harness to make it work? I assume its possible....!

Thanks

Ben

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Companies like SuperbrightLEDs make bulb replacement units. Using those bulbs in the turn signals results in super fast flashing unless you make some changes to the system, like changing the flasher relay. I think Spokeworks makes some LED modules, but I don't remember exactly.

There is someone else on 914world that installs LEDs into the instruments to brighten them up. The downside: They don't dim with the stock dimmer; some circuitry needs to be built to dim them.

Never ever EVER use an LED bulb in the alternator warning light. The light must have a specific amount of resistance in order to kick-start the charging circuit. Plus the current can flow either direction, and LEDs only allow current to flow in one direction. (So you have to make sure they are all "pointing" the right way in the other lights!)

LED headlights exist. A universal 7" round replacement should work, though most of them look a little odd.

--DD