As ALWAYS... to the point, you speak clearly, fo all the work in your driveway just like 90% of us. No jibber jabber, you show the before, after and mistakes you learn from. SOOOOOO GLAD I found your channel, I am now a much more fearful driveway TH-cam mechanic. Thank you ChrisGix.... you have LITERALLY saved me at least %1000 if not more. TY... NICK
The biggest reason I stop watching videos before they get to what the title says! I don’t care if it’s your laundry day or you just got home from the dentist etc.... just get to the point!
Good lord, the difference in his voice from then and now is so different. He seems so much happier/excited now. But still always had great information.
I personally like his voice from six years ago much more. It sounds more genuine and quite soothing, while I’m anxious about touching anything on my car in fear of messing it up. Now he sounds like he’s trying way harder to be a TH-cam enthusiastic dude to make his videos more appealing. I still love the guy though, but the late video sound more artificial. Content is still great anyways, and I’m so grateful we have a ChrisFix on this planet. If you hear me out Chris, keep up the great work !
I've never seen anyone going as meticulously about doing a DIY-video like this _anywhere!_ - This is _benchmark_ stuff Chris!!! I salute your efforts doing this!!!🙂👍
The easy way to tell which poles on a relay are the controller and which one is the load when the instructions are conflicting is to take a multimeter, turn it to ohms, and test opposing sides. The pair that shows no continuity (infinite resistance) is the load connections (what you connect to the auxiliary lights and battery), and the pair that show a definite number of ohms is the controller connections (what you connect to the stock reverse light and ground).
someone actually did that to me the other month, some dude left his high beams on so i flashed mine at hi and after wed passed he flashed his back lights at me
I've seen a lot of video's on the subject and this one is by far the best. Not a lot of blah, blah, blah filler speech, just explicit this is what I'm going to do, why I'm doing it, and clear directions. Great job.
I'm a 60-year-old woman and your video is so great even I could understand what you're saying I think I can fix my original reverse light on the passenger side simply by watching what you did hooking up these lights I know what the check now thank you so much man. Not only did you make this project look easy you made DIY look easy
Excellent teaching video! Your work rivals the work of "Professional" mechanics who have a crew helping with the video production. Your clarity in making explanations and your use of drawings to help show points that are otherwise not clear are really outstanding. I will try to find this video again after I fix my back-up light problem and buy the LED back-up lights.
Andy Perez most people would power the lights using only the power from the taillight. The relay uses the power from the taillight to tell it to use power from the battery. A relay "listens" for a signal to close the circuit.
@@aguyandhiscomputer the relay was unnecessary since he was still using the taillights. He'd only need a fuse at that point. A relay would be used if he was cutting power all together to only run the led lamps.
Just another terrific example of an automotive 'How To' video from Chris Fix. You are the man, thanks Chris. You are always clear, concise, organised and to the point - thank you!
This is a very good solution. I am wondering if it would be much simpler just disconnect the stock reverse light and use the male connector on the LEDs by adding a female connector. The 10A fuse should be good enough for two LED lights.
Never thought about doing this. But being a delivery driver for a pizza place, these would come in handy when I back out of people's driveways every night. Although I'd have to use small Led strips vs these huge trail ones.
i would try to avoid backing for safety and insurance reasons,, ups drivers and fedex guy they dont want them backing up for safety reasons a just a thought lite would be good though
As always your videos are amazing! I just can’t help but notice how much you’ve grown in both skills and knowledge. Just earlier today I watched a Sep 2016 video where you designed and welded an LED light bar assembly to your truck. Keep up the incredible work and above all, please keep the videos coming.
It’s so cool seeing how much neater his work is now than it used to be. Here the solder was sloppy and didn’t use heat shrink. Now he wouldn’t thing twice about making everything perfect
Chris, Use silicone filled butt connectors for extra protection, and the tube is called "wire loom". I just used an old aircraft landing light from a Cessna 172 for my backup light with #10 stranded wire through a switch on the dash to the light and from the light to ground. I mounted it on the body rear bumper to the left of the license plate recess. It worked great!
Thanks for the tip Troy. This is an old video, I do my electrical work differently now. I think you will approve of this: th-cam.com/video/1-F0PIF8Hqo/w-d-xo.html
When you attach a wire to the side of another wire there is no way to get the shrink tube there. I prefer electrical tape secured with two zip ties instead of cutting wires that dont need to be cut. It is sealed from the elements well enough. On a wire end to a wire end -connection i always use heat shrink tube as it is easy to put it there.
Very thorough details and a good clean, quality installation. Good to see you used the wire loom, especially for that front to back power run. A lot of people would have just run the wire itself but the loom gives that power wire good abrasion protection. Last thing you want is a power wire rubbing against the truck’s frame :) Nice job...
***** Thanks a lot man! I appreciate the feedback! I really wanted to do this job right and show how it is done because of exactly what you said. I see that way too often!
ChrisFix got a question, I just ordered some of these lights for my 2010 f250. If I ran a main power wire from the battery then into my cab with a inline fuse and put in a rocker switch but also spliced them in to my taillight would that work to where I can turn them off even in reverse and not use them every time I back up?
I really like ALL your vids-- you make things so CLEAR and SIMPLE--- and don't make me dizzy bouncing the camera around all over the place.. THANKS for the usual extremely good job.
Great video! Feeling a lot more confident now about installing the same thing on my Jeep. The only I want to do is add a switch inside so that I can turn on the lights if I need to.
I agree with wanting to add a switch in my cab to control the axillary reverse lights. There is one video that I found its pretty good but he doesn't really show the connection to the rocker switch. It would be great if you could show a play by play
Tip: after crimping a wire you can solder it to further increase durability. When u got the connector hot by sticking it long enough to ur soldering iron you can solder the wire to the connector. Once u solder the wire to the connector it is tough enough that u have to pull hard to break it. Vibrations and corrosion will no longer be a problem. Also you should have put the relay inside the space where the taillight assembly mounts on the body. That will keep it safe from the elements. The spot u choose to mount it is prone to mud and water splash. you should have used a relay socket then solder. Instead of connectors that connects one by one. Other wise this is very informative. :) Thanks
In the beginning, as you were displaying the parts, you lifted each part up for the camera. The relay had 5 pins. Shortly, thereafter, you displayed a diagram, with arrows) of the back of the relay switch, which had only 4 pins (black background). If I wanted to use a switch on my dashboard, would I need five pins or 4?
Just bought these parts from Amazon this week. Looking to install these tomorrow, I wanna make sure that the relay numbers are all the same with the current link you have in the description. Thanks for a great and simply explained video.
one of the best how-to videos I've come across... explained each step completely... did not waste time with unneeded footage or personal comments. great job, truly
Same where you will get the power to the lights in this video. Connect the video wires to the entertainment screen then mount the buzzer if it is included.
Tidy and well thought out installation. One recommendation. Slip some heat shrink on your soldered power connection up or down stream. It helps prevents/inhibit corrosion at your solder joint when the vehicle is subjected to high humidity and rainy conditions. All that aside, well done. Thank you.
I have seen many "how to" videos on many different subjects. Yours are by far one of the best if not the best made. Very informative, and spoken well. So many videos are soft spoken, wind over powering the voice, shakey camera, and so much more. But your videos are done on a much higher level and feels as if your right next to us with your step by step directions. Keep up the good work.
Chris, when I use crimp connectors like the ones on your common ground at the back, I crimp them as well but I add a drop of solder on the strands poking out to ensure a good connection especially in the salty winters we have in Canada.
I see you wire up a lot of extra stuff on your vehicles, with all those extra lines on your battery cable, wouldn’t it be better for you to run an auxiliary fuse box?
I installed the reverse light on my Jeep Wrangler with the assist of this video and the result was amazing, before the installation the stock reverse light was really dark that I can’t see anything when backing at night, with the led light it feel much safer to backing now, thank you Chris!!!
I used these instructions to install back up lights on my 68 jeepster. Using a relay is super cool, works like it's supposed to. Very helpful explanation on what goes where. ❤
mobileterminaluser that's actually a great idea! I also think the relay connections are very vulnerable to corrosion due to water that would get in there.
Great video, but one thing besides putting the green rubber seals in the wrong place on the water tight connection. You didn't need to add the extra wire before the fuse going to the positive battery terminal, you should have put the ring terminal directly to the battery side of your fuse holder. The reasons are you want the wire to be as short as possible and now you have another connection (extra length of wire)to possibly come apart thats not fused.
If you ever do another instal with aux reverse lights please show how what relay to use to have them activate with a switch and also by the reverse lights. I want to have them able to come on manually, but also with the reverse lights. But don’t want them to back feed into the BCM when they are manually on.
Chris, I wanted to mention that the wire seals for the wiring going to the lights should to be installed differently. It's a bit trickier than the method you used, but the seal should go onto wire first, and then the terminal is crimped onto the wire. The tabs that engage the wire insulation are meant to wrap around the surface of the seal as well as the wire so that you get a better weather seal. Here is a reference link for what i'm talking about th-cam.com/video/wuL5ZU_SviI/w-d-xo.html Other than that, this is a great video, thanks for uploading!
As someone who worked in a factory that produces wiring harnesses - I second this! Right after I saw how he put those one I immediately paused the video and went to check if anyone has already mentioned this.
Whats the point of the relay? Most Mazda's and Rangers of this era had a 40amp relay already running the back reverse lights I am sure they would run your LED from the wire itself since they are low load anyway?
In this case, I don't think the relay was really necessary. A relay would only be needed if you were wiring something with a high current draw to a "trigger" circuit and need a separate larger gauge wire and higher amperage fuse to power it. Those LED lights Chris installed in the video don't use much power, so the relay just means extra wiring in this instance. The way he wired everything does work, but I think he made the install more complex than it needed to be. All he had to do was use a wire tap to connect the positive wire from the LED's to a positive wire in the reverse light circuit (either behind the tailight or in the trailer wiring loom) and then just ground the LED's negative.
Love your videos, this one included. One point to make: when you're building those (Delphi Weatherpack-like) connectors at the 11:39 mark, I don't think you have the rubber seals on correctly. Those are supposed to slide onto the wire first before you put the crimp connector on. The end tabs of the crimp connector, which you have just wrapped around the insulation, are supposed to crimp down on the long edge of the rubber seal, thus holding it firmly in place. Minor detail, and might speak more about my OCD than anything, but always best to ensure waterproofing measures for wiring work as designed... Also, where you pack those other crimp connectors with dielectric grease -- probably better to buy the waterproof crimp connectors that have the heat-shrink tubing on the open end.
That's awesome. Only thing I see that might be a promblem is, if you're backing out of a parking space at night like Walmart. It's going to blind the hell out of people lol. But they'll get over it. Great video. 👍
Hands down best instructional video to ever exist on YT. I figured there would be at least one step not shown, which is typical, but nope. The best. Finally some satisfaction. Nice work.
Most relays are either 30 or 40amp rated nothing less... A 10amp fuse provides the circuit with two things, one is in rush current for the initial turn on and the other is long term current heating up the wire over the length of the vehicle, lastly they don't make 6amp or 8amp fuses so a single 10amp will do as it protects the working circuit and will still blow in the case of a short circuit
I added Nilight leds for added backup & rear end work lights...but used no relay. I simply ran a hot wire from my battery to a separate toggle switch that I installed on the dash of my 2019 Ford Ranger. From the switch..I ran a wire back thru the fire wall and along my frame to the lights mounted on the rear bumper..& then the lights were grounded to the bumper mount. Works well...very low current draw..no problems.
Thank you for the amazing content Chris! I really love the Electrical series, please if you have a chance to make a remote starter tutorial. There isn't any good remote starter tutorials on TH-cam or Online you would be the goto video if you made one.
Ivan Obregon instead of running the relay control wire to the reverse lights, get a fuse tap and find a circuit in your fuse box that is on when your truck is idling using a multimeter. Plug the fuse tap in, with a low amperage fuse, and run that wire to a switch. From the back side of the switch, run a wire to the relay control tab (where he ran the reverse light power into). And that should do it! Your 12v to control the relay is now coming from a switch instead of the reverse lights. The relay can use any 12v signal to trigger.
THANK YOU, I HAVE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR THIS KIND OF SETUP FOR MY '1969' GMC C2500 PICKUP AND I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO SEE MUCH OF ANYTHING BEHIND IT AT NIGHT WITH THE FACTORY LIGHTS ON THE TRUCK . 🤔😁
Keep in mind you are adding load to the alternator as well. Hence you listed a video about replacing it lol. But for anyone else thinking of adding more electric to the vehicle think about upgrading the alternator or the battery too. It will last you in the long run. Something Chris forgot to mention in his Project Nightlight series.
is this illegal if i were backing up at a Walmart or some public place? could the police get me for something, its illegal to run my off road light bar while driving, but what about reverse lights?
Benjamin Masters depending on your state and local laws but where I live in Northern ny, the police wouldn't care about the reverse lights, but it is illegal to use the light bars on public roads. I'd check your state and local laws
I've wondered the same thing but it's for your visibility so I don't think so. You're only reversing. Not like you're driving behind someone with led light bars on. I wouldn't worry about it. Otherwise just wire in a kill switch
Lusty Wench it's not illegal. The ones I'm doing are just going to be wired straight into my reverse lights. In public and on private property I want to be able to see behind me.
Lusty Wench they legally can not cite you for it. You can be cited for not using DOT approved driving lights. The DOT actually only states that you're required to have reverse lights. It doesn't say anything about what type of light it can or cannot be.
Love the video man! I've had these lights in my bumper for almost a year now and never wired them, I've watched several videos and yours was the best description on how to do it. I appreciate it! Thanks for the detailed instruction
Ron Sissons just locate the 7way trailer connector, and there is one wire that should say back up lights. or you can press the manual brake and put wheel chocks, put ignition on,do not start the truck. put it in reverse and your factory reverse light should light up. go with voltmeter on the 7way connector and locate the wire that has power,only when back up lights are on. if you leave voltmeter on,and see the voltage, go and put it in park, then back up lights will shut down,and you wont see any voltage on voltmeter. thats your back up + wire. put both + wires from the led and connect them there. the ground - wires should go in chassis or if you find a negative - wire. and wolllaaa, you have extra back up lights.
What a super video! I really like that you were able to get some great closeup shots of everything coming together. It isn't easy getting underneath the truck, much less getting clear focused shots of the wiring. Very informative!
yeah, I've got a legacy wagon w/ limo tint. even w/ 1,000 lumen LED reverse bulbs it's still barely adequate.....i'll be doing the same thing. saw a couple people do this as well on their 2nd gen prii...
+kevinjfeeney77 yeah. My led bulbs aren't any brighter than the old ones. About the same in non tinted lights. For $14 on Amazon you can get a set of little LED light bars cheap that are really bright. I'm not one to normally advocate buying cheap lights like that but for the price you can't complain
Back in the day I has a 1973 Corvette with header and sidepipes. That left rectangular holes in the back of the car that were a perfect fit for halogen lights. I hooked them up to a toggle switch which gave me great back up lights. But what was even better was when the a§§holes would come behind me with there high beams blinding me I would flip the switch for a second and you would be amazed at how fast they shut the high beams off!
Chris this was a very good how to video, your description with the relay was perfect. This was very detailed from start to finish. Thank you this will help me in my wiring projects.
I can agree with that. Those staycons on the relay are going to corrode and break off over time. Also the relay should have been installed with in the factory fuse/ relay box.
@@jordanz99 Or use a relay that comes with the waterproof cover on the opposite side. You pin it up similar to the three pronged waterproof connectors he used at the end on the lights.
OMG, Didn't remember the time when Chris bare hands did the job not the smurf new hands! :D Now, seriously, one of the best explanation and graphics about how a relay works ever, I've screenshooted for my own reference in the future! Great job as usual Chris! Thanks a lot!
Chris Flush Mounted the Reverse lights in to my Bumper and wired the lights right into my Factory reverse lights, no need to hook up Relay or run extra wires, the lights still work after 6 months.
I love your videos. I wish I found your channel earlier so I could have fixed my car. Next car I get and if it has a problem definitely watching your videos to fix it. Always been interested in cars but never had anyone to show me how to fix them. So now I watch your videos and realize how much mechanics rip you off. Trying to go back to school to be a mechanic. You make working on cars fun and interesting. Keep it up and thanks for the great videos.
You did a great job with this video "But" you made a eazy install into a very long complicated way to install those lights by installing a relay to a very simple job. However that's just my opinion and aside from all that, thank for a great video that I'm sure many found very helpful. Have a awesome day sir
Lol as an electrician my first thought was the ground is always green lol but I probably would have Ist used a waterproof wirenut and electrical tape instead of soldering just me. I thought he did a good job myself.
First off, that was a great instructional step by step, detailed video...thanks for posting. If your truck came with a factory trailer pkg & your engaging the LED with your reverse light, why didn't you just wire the ground & power wire directly to the factory trailer harness wires? I'm not knocking your way by any means as I'm no pro but it seems much easier to tie into the trailer harness. Thanks
What a well done video. Very direct, thorough, and easy to follow, especially for those that are not electricians. If I can understand this video and upon completion of my efforts everything works just fine, then others will be able to follow it also. I will surely save this video. If you ever do a video on using Fords Uplitters, I will surely watch out for it. I have watched others but I enjoyed your teaching, coaching, and mentoring. I really appreciate watching these kinds of videos. Mahalo for taking the time.
I would’ve used the hot wire to the taillight. When it’s dark enough to need your lights is when you would typically need extra light for reversing. But great install anyway. And those things are SUPER bright.
I love your channel but as a retired law man, I would put in an override switch somewhere so that when you are on the street and must back up, you are not cited for an excessively white reverse light. That light is beyond, "dazzling" and much brighter than the original engineered reverse lights. If an office can get P.C. to stop you, you may not like what happens next. Think about it; you are backing up at a local gas station and the brightness causes a wreck.... liability for damages to both property and person. Your insurance could theoretically not cover you for the modification especially if the box reads, "OFF ROAD USE ONLY." Now, on to my next Chris Fix video!
Chris, in the place where you added the ground wire to pin 85 of the relay, you sand papered the bolt you used for the ground connection on a small bracket bolt, but you missed the other two bolts grounding the bracket to the frame. You needed to sand paper that bolt also because it was the only ground connection to the actual frame.
The best thing about this video...not a bunch of useless chatter talk...straight to the point.Great job,extremely helpful and informative! Thanks!
+Kevin Williams Thanks Kevin! I try to do this for all of my videos!
word
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As ALWAYS... to the point, you speak clearly, fo all the work in your driveway just like 90% of us. No jibber jabber, you show the before, after and mistakes you learn from. SOOOOOO GLAD I found your channel, I am now a much more fearful driveway TH-cam mechanic. Thank you ChrisGix.... you have LITERALLY saved me at least %1000 if not more. TY... NICK
For Real. So many videos where the narrator runs their cake cutters and takes forever to get to the POINT!
The biggest reason I stop watching videos before they get to what the title says! I don’t care if it’s your laundry day or you just got home from the dentist etc.... just get to the point!
Good lord, the difference in his voice from then and now is so different. He seems so much happier/excited now. But still always had great information.
That's called TH-cam voice
I personally like his voice from six years ago much more.
It sounds more genuine and quite soothing, while I’m anxious about touching anything on my car in fear of messing it up. Now he sounds like he’s trying way harder to be a TH-cam enthusiastic dude to make his videos more appealing. I still love the guy though, but the late video sound more artificial. Content is still great anyways, and I’m so grateful we have a ChrisFix on this planet.
If you hear me out Chris, keep up the great work !
@@elyannouh8880 Nice backhanded compliment.
@@pdrey100 Haha! 😂, right LOL, LIKE WAS THAT A COMPLIMENT OR AN INSULT. 🤣 Some people have a way with words. I cant stop laughing over man!
I've never seen anyone going as meticulously about doing a DIY-video like this _anywhere!_ - This is _benchmark_ stuff Chris!!! I salute your efforts doing this!!!🙂👍
Bababooey...
The easy way to tell which poles on a relay are the controller and which one is the load when the instructions are conflicting is to take a multimeter, turn it to ohms, and test opposing sides. The pair that shows no continuity (infinite resistance) is the load connections (what you connect to the auxiliary lights and battery), and the pair that show a definite number of ohms is the controller connections (what you connect to the stock reverse light and ground).
wow actually a useful comment
Thx
Hey, why is the relay necessary in this case? If there's already current being tapped from the reverse lights, why the relay?
@@trinifirst6702 the lights are being powered directly from the battery. The relay is just a switch, which itself is powered by the stock light.
Bababooey...
You are a very good teacher. You speak clearly, no ugly words, no profanity. Just top notch.
I would install this just to mess with people driving with their high beams on
Mannnnnnnnnnn just picturing that sounds fucking priceless 😂😂😂😂
someone actually did that to me the other month, some dude left his high beams on so i flashed mine at hi and after wed passed he flashed his back lights at me
I added a 40 inch in the bed so if someone tries to tailgate or blind me i got my way of telling them to back off
@@Mydickfelloffagain ill give you a 4 inch in the bef
Your gonna go in reverse mid drive 😳
probably the best instruction on how to wire a relay that I have seen!
Thanks!
You have some awesome videos. I'm an airplane guy, but when I have some spare change, I love tinkering with my '11 Ford Ranger. I love this idea!
+MrAviation101 Thanks a lot! I am glad you like the videos!
Also, now I'm looking at replacing my halogens on my grill guard with these... Subscribed!
I have a 2011 Ranger too! Going through chrisfix University
Love ur work mate
u had to mention about being an airplane guy right?
I've seen a lot of video's on the subject and this one is by far the best. Not a lot of blah, blah, blah filler speech, just explicit this is what I'm going to do, why I'm doing it, and clear directions. Great job.
I'm a 60-year-old woman and your video is so great even I could understand what you're saying I think I can fix my original reverse light on the passenger side simply by watching what you did hooking up these lights I know what the check now thank you so much man. Not only did you make this project look easy you made DIY look easy
Excellent teaching video! Your work rivals the work of "Professional" mechanics who have a crew helping with the video production. Your clarity in making explanations and your use of drawings to help show points that are otherwise not clear are really outstanding. I will try to find this video again after I fix my back-up light problem and buy the LED back-up lights.
Bababooey...
You have the absolute best channel for automotive help. Thanks for taking all the time to help us mere mortals.
lol, i'm just ChrisFix!
Thanks for explaining how the relay operates.
No problem!!!
I'm not sure if I missed something, but what is the purpose of the relay?
Andy Perez most people would power the lights using only the power from the taillight. The relay uses the power from the taillight to tell it to use power from the battery. A relay "listens" for a signal to close the circuit.
For a quick second it didn't make sense, I just rewatched the video and not it makes 100% sense. Thank you Bud!
@@aguyandhiscomputer the relay was unnecessary since he was still using the taillights. He'd only need a fuse at that point. A relay would be used if he was cutting power all together to only run the led lamps.
Just another terrific example of an automotive 'How To' video from Chris Fix. You are the man, thanks Chris. You are always clear, concise, organised and to the point - thank you!
Bababooey..
This is a very good solution. I am wondering if it would be much simpler just disconnect the stock reverse light and use the male connector on the LEDs by adding a female connector. The 10A fuse should be good enough for two LED lights.
Never thought about doing this. But being a delivery driver for a pizza place, these would come in handy when I back out of people's driveways every night. Although I'd have to use small Led strips vs these huge trail ones.
+Dylan Stassen (Bassman415) That is a good application!
i would try to avoid backing for safety and insurance reasons,, ups drivers and fedex guy they dont want them backing up for safety reasons a just a thought lite would be good though
As always your videos are amazing! I just can’t help but notice how much you’ve grown in both skills and knowledge. Just earlier today I watched a Sep 2016 video where you designed and welded an LED light bar assembly to your truck. Keep up the incredible work and above all, please keep the videos coming.
Bababooey...
Great visual at 1:47
Thanks Brian!
briansmobile1 I
You assemble the conector wrong the rubber gromet goes on the wire before you crimp the connector
briansmobile1 p
briansmobile1 o
It’s so cool seeing how much neater his work is now than it used to be. Here the solder was sloppy and didn’t use heat shrink. Now he wouldn’t thing twice about making everything perfect
Chris,
Use silicone filled butt connectors for extra protection, and the tube is called "wire loom". I just used an old aircraft landing light from a Cessna 172 for my backup light with #10 stranded wire through a switch on the dash to the light and from the light to ground. I mounted it on the body rear bumper to the left of the license plate recess. It worked great!
Electrical tape?! tsk tsk Chris. Heat shrink for exposed electrical connections
Thanks for the tip Troy. This is an old video, I do my electrical work differently now. I think you will approve of this: th-cam.com/video/1-F0PIF8Hqo/w-d-xo.html
+ChrisFix Lol all good buddy. I think your videos are awesome. Keep it up!
How would he have been able to fit a heat shrink tube in there anyways? Electrical tape was probably the best option
When you attach a wire to the side of another wire there is no way to get the shrink tube there.
I prefer electrical tape secured with two zip ties instead of cutting wires that dont need to be cut.
It is sealed from the elements well enough.
On a wire end to a wire end -connection i always use heat shrink tube as it is easy to put it there.
Lol what do u think electric tape is made of
Such a good video! I'm amazed with how terrible stock reverse lights are. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think the same with my vehicle.
Thanks!
Very thorough details and a good clean, quality installation. Good to see you used the wire loom, especially for that front to back power run. A lot of people would have just run the wire itself but the loom gives that power wire good abrasion protection. Last thing you want is a power wire rubbing against the truck’s frame :) Nice job...
***** Thanks a lot man! I appreciate the feedback! I really wanted to do this job right and show how it is done because of exactly what you said. I see that way too often!
ChrisFix got a question, I just ordered some of these lights for my 2010 f250. If I ran a main power wire from the battery then into my cab with a inline fuse and put in a rocker switch but also spliced them in to my taillight would that work to where I can turn them off even in reverse and not use them every time I back up?
@@chrisfix
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This video was a big help. I’ve been thinking about doing the same to my truck and after watching I went out and stared doing it. Thank you.
I really like ALL your vids-- you make things so CLEAR and SIMPLE--- and don't make me dizzy bouncing the camera around all over the place.. THANKS for the usual extremely good job.
Bababooey...
Great video! Feeling a lot more confident now about installing the same thing on my Jeep. The only I want to do is add a switch inside so that I can turn on the lights if I need to.
I agree with wanting to add a switch in my cab to control the axillary reverse lights. There is one video that I found its pretty good but he doesn't really show the connection to the rocker switch. It would be great if you could show a play by play
Tip: after crimping a wire you can solder it to further increase durability. When u got the connector hot by sticking it long enough to ur soldering iron you can solder the wire to the connector. Once u solder the wire to the connector it is tough enough that u have to pull hard to break it. Vibrations and corrosion will no longer be a problem.
Also you should have put the relay inside the space where the taillight assembly mounts on the body. That will keep it safe from the elements. The spot u choose to mount it is prone to mud and water splash.
you should have used a relay socket then solder. Instead of connectors that connects one by one. Other wise this is very informative. :) Thanks
Thanks for the tips and thanks a lot!
@@chrisfix wow u are still replying to comments on your videos 7yrs ago. :) Can't wait on that honda turbo charge episode. Hope it comes soon...
Bababooey...
@@chrisfix bababooey...
@@gabrieldauz3533 bababooey...
In the beginning, as you were displaying the parts, you lifted each part up for the camera. The relay had 5 pins. Shortly, thereafter, you displayed a diagram, with arrows) of the back of the relay switch, which had only 4 pins (black background).
If I wanted to use a switch on my dashboard, would I need five pins or 4?
Just bought these parts from Amazon this week. Looking to install these tomorrow, I wanna make sure that the relay numbers are all the same with the current link you have in the description. Thanks for a great and simply explained video.
one of the best how-to videos I've come across... explained each step completely... did not waste time with unneeded footage or personal comments. great job, truly
And a bababooey to you all...
can you show us how to install a backup camera?
Good idea!
ChrisFix still waiting 😂
Same where you will get the power to the lights in this video. Connect the video wires to the entertainment screen then mount the buzzer if it is included.
Ben Hodges still hanging on to it 😂💀
🤔
Tidy and well thought out installation. One recommendation. Slip some heat shrink on your soldered power connection up or down stream. It helps prevents/inhibit corrosion at your solder joint when the vehicle is subjected to high humidity and rainy conditions. All that aside, well done. Thank you.
This guy is awesome, very thorough and makes it simple for all the DIY guys!
Bababooey...
I have seen many "how to" videos on many different subjects. Yours are by far one of the best if not the best made. Very informative, and spoken well.
So many videos are soft spoken, wind over powering the voice, shakey camera, and so much more. But your videos are done on a much higher level and feels as if your right next to us with your step by step directions. Keep up the good work.
+sn1ckerzz zzrekc1ns thanks a lot!!!
Bababooey
Chris, when I use crimp connectors like the ones on your common ground at the back, I crimp them as well but I add a drop of solder on the strands poking out to ensure a good connection especially in the salty winters we have in Canada.
This is really good. Could you install a switch between terminal 87 and 30 that would allow you to turn on lights without being in reverse?
Hey ChrisFix it guy, I was wondering if you can fix relationships? Mine is broke. lol
Oh man... Mine is too. Life is hard.
that's why you buy a vehicle instead, they are usually easier to fix when they talk back.
whether it's got tits or a motor, it's guaranteed to give you problems
7 Star 150 and both need lube
Consider yourself lucky.
I see you wire up a lot of extra stuff on your vehicles, with all those extra lines on your battery cable, wouldn’t it be better for you to run an auxiliary fuse box?
I installed the reverse light on my Jeep Wrangler with the assist of this video and the result was amazing, before the installation the stock reverse light was really dark that I can’t see anything when backing at night, with the led light it feel much safer to backing now, thank you Chris!!!
Bababooey
I used these instructions to install back up lights on my 68 jeepster. Using a relay is super cool, works like it's supposed to. Very helpful explanation on what goes where. ❤
u can use a balloon to protect the relay & wires then electrical tape at the end
mobileterminaluser that's actually a great idea! I also think the relay connections are very vulnerable to corrosion due to water that would get in there.
What a great idea. Never would have thought of that. Does it really stand the time?
mobileterminaluser I would though about something less prone to heat damage... self bonding tape maybe
I have used fingers cut from surgical gloves. then wrapped the whole thing in tape. It seems like they would last quite a while.
Great video, but one thing besides putting the green rubber seals in the wrong place on the water tight connection. You didn't need to add the extra wire before the fuse going to the positive battery terminal, you should have put the ring terminal directly to the battery side of your fuse holder. The reasons are you want the wire to be as short as possible and now you have another connection (extra length of wire)to possibly come apart thats not fused.
*orange seal*
Master mechanic and an artist to boot.
If you ever do another instal with aux reverse lights please show how what relay to use to have them activate with a switch and also by the reverse lights.
I want to have them able to come on manually, but also with the reverse lights. But don’t want them to back feed into the BCM when they are manually on.
I have used this video so many times just to look at the wiring diagram to the relay @ 1:47 Thanks Chris!!!
You are my best teacher
German Flores Thanks!
Get a room!
Dawn Witmer wut
I have a better teacher
Chris, I wanted to mention that the wire seals for the wiring going to the lights should to be installed differently. It's a bit trickier than the method you used, but the seal should go onto wire first, and then the terminal is crimped onto the wire. The tabs that engage the wire insulation are meant to wrap around the surface of the seal as well as the wire so that you get a better weather seal. Here is a reference link for what i'm talking about th-cam.com/video/wuL5ZU_SviI/w-d-xo.html
Other than that, this is a great video, thanks for uploading!
As someone who worked in a factory that produces wiring harnesses - I second this! Right after I saw how he put those one I immediately paused the video and went to check if anyone has already mentioned this.
Whats the point of the relay? Most Mazda's and Rangers of this era had a 40amp relay already running the back reverse lights I am sure they would run your LED from the wire itself since they are low load anyway?
i would do it just to be safe
Classy.
Mark Wolf actually, I was asking myself the same question!
In this case, I don't think the relay was really necessary. A relay would only be needed if you were wiring something with a high current draw to a "trigger" circuit and need a separate larger gauge wire and higher amperage fuse to power it. Those LED lights Chris installed in the video don't use much power, so the relay just means extra wiring in this instance. The way he wired everything does work, but I think he made the install more complex than it needed to be. All he had to do was use a wire tap to connect the positive wire from the LED's to a positive wire in the reverse light circuit (either behind the tailight or in the trailer wiring loom) and then just ground the LED's negative.
If they are 18w, that is just 1.5 amps each. They are on a 10 amp circuit he said. No problems going straight to the existing wires.
Love your videos, this one included.
One point to make: when you're building those (Delphi Weatherpack-like) connectors at the 11:39 mark, I don't think you have the rubber seals on correctly. Those are supposed to slide onto the wire first before you put the crimp connector on. The end tabs of the crimp connector, which you have just wrapped around the insulation, are supposed to crimp down on the long edge of the rubber seal, thus holding it firmly in place.
Minor detail, and might speak more about my OCD than anything, but always best to ensure waterproofing measures for wiring work as designed...
Also, where you pack those other crimp connectors with dielectric grease -- probably better to buy the waterproof crimp connectors that have the heat-shrink tubing on the open end.
Bababooey
Bababooey
I know this video has been around but I just now watched it. Great job on showing everything step by step. Thoroughly enjoyed this, thank you
Outstanding description on how to...
That's awesome. Only thing I see that might be a promblem is, if you're backing out of a parking space at night like Walmart. It's going to blind the hell out of people lol. But they'll get over it. Great video. 👍
It grabs their attention so they don’t run into you
Im planning on doing this bc i tint my Windows and now i cant see squad when i back up when is dark.
Why I never get tints...can't see through rear, can't see through side when switching lanes at night.
Hands down best instructional video to ever exist on YT. I figured there would be at least one step not shown, which is typical, but nope. The best. Finally some satisfaction. Nice work.
Thanks Jamie! Glad the videos are helpful!
Bababooey
@@chrisfix bababooey
You give the best explanation for your installs of ANYONE on the net....IMHO.
they r brighter than ur headlights
+willis jordan haha yea they are!
ChrisFix What Are You Instal
willis jordan they are brighter then my future
willis jordan lern 2 englis plzz
Thomas farquhar He is being normal you need to learn
Hey Chris, i have been wondering why do you use a 10amp fuse for a 1,5-3amp light and why a 40amp relay when the fuse is 10amp?
Most relays are either 30 or 40amp rated nothing less... A 10amp fuse provides the circuit with two things, one is in rush current for the initial turn on and the other is long term current heating up the wire over the length of the vehicle, lastly they don't make 6amp or 8amp fuses so a single 10amp will do as it protects the working circuit and will still blow in the case of a short circuit
6:14 that battery power wiring story is 10/10
Fixed a 1967 GTX with your ideas. The car was stripped before I bought it. No reverse lights. This video fixed that problem. Thanks
I added Nilight leds for added backup & rear end work lights...but used no relay. I simply ran a hot wire from my battery to a separate toggle switch that I installed on the dash of my 2019 Ford Ranger. From the switch..I ran a wire back thru the fire wall and along my frame to the lights mounted on the rear bumper..& then the lights were grounded to the bumper mount. Works well...very low current draw..no problems.
Thank you for the amazing content Chris! I really love the Electrical series, please if you have a chance to make a remote starter tutorial. There isn't any good remote starter tutorials on TH-cam or Online you would be the goto video if you made one.
Bababooey
Any idea on how I can add a switch to turn on or off, if my truck is idling?
Ivan Obregon instead of running the relay control wire to the reverse lights, get a fuse tap and find a circuit in your fuse box that is on when your truck is idling using a multimeter. Plug the fuse tap in, with a low amperage fuse, and run that wire to a switch. From the back side of the switch, run a wire to the relay control tab (where he ran the reverse light power into). And that should do it! Your 12v to control the relay is now coming from a switch instead of the reverse lights. The relay can use any 12v signal to trigger.
@@CShellStudio thanks I will try it!!
these would be nice wired to a switch in the cab. so when someone is riding your ass you can flash them at him
Normally they can be wired as auxiliary scene lights OR reverse lights. Not sure why he didn't show that.
that's how I would set it up lol
No thanks will leave it
OC Outdoors or if someone is on there phone and don't know how to see
For as much as i hate people tailgating I wouldn't want to be responsible for causing an accident, my conscience wouldn't let me do that...
THANK YOU, I HAVE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR THIS KIND OF SETUP FOR MY '1969' GMC C2500 PICKUP AND I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO SEE MUCH OF ANYTHING BEHIND IT AT NIGHT WITH THE FACTORY LIGHTS ON THE TRUCK . 🤔😁
Keep in mind you are adding load to the alternator as well. Hence you listed a video about replacing it lol. But for anyone else thinking of adding more electric to the vehicle think about upgrading the alternator or the battery too. It will last you in the long run. Something Chris forgot to mention in his Project Nightlight series.
what happened to the How a Relay Works, and
How to Wire Truck Bed Lights videos?
+Xfah xQX They are not out yet. I still need to film them!
ChrisFix where is the videos
chrisfix we still wait
is this illegal if i were backing up at a Walmart or some public place? could the police get me for something, its illegal to run my off road light bar while driving, but what about reverse lights?
Benjamin Masters depending on your state and local laws but where I live in Northern ny, the police wouldn't care about the reverse lights, but it is illegal to use the light bars on public roads. I'd check your state and local laws
I've wondered the same thing but it's for your visibility so I don't think so. You're only reversing. Not like you're driving behind someone with led light bars on. I wouldn't worry about it. Otherwise just wire in a kill switch
Lusty Wench it's not illegal. The ones I'm doing are just going to be wired straight into my reverse lights. In public and on private property I want to be able to see behind me.
Lusty Wench police won't bother you for reverse lights. You can do what you want but I'm just saying.
Lusty Wench they legally can not cite you for it. You can be cited for not using DOT approved driving lights. The DOT actually only states that you're required to have reverse lights. It doesn't say anything about what type of light it can or cannot be.
The light locations look very vulnerable.
yup from wild hobos
Next install: mud flaps
+TransHaus dude for real I saw that too
I wou've located on the roof.
my point exactly i would've got the sink in style pods and cut holes in my bumper to mount them into.
I'm a kid and I watch these, now I know what to do when I grow up
Love the video man! I've had these lights in my bumper for almost a year now and never wired them, I've watched several videos and yours was the best description on how to do it. I appreciate it! Thanks for the detailed instruction
do they draw that much power that you need a relay?
I was wondering the same thing, I think i'm going to try tapping them into the reverse lights
Always best to add a relay and get your power directly from the battery or a power block under the hood.
brittenv1000: yes
you should do a trail video with your Ford ranger
That would be cool
Fam bubam man it's a Mazda but cool idea anyway
i wired mine on the back up line thats on the 7way trailer connector :)
+Dimce Gligorov good idea
ChrisFix yeap, less wires, and no relay needed.
you have facebook page?
Can you explain a little? This sounds like a better alternative.
Ron Sissons just locate the 7way trailer connector, and there is one wire that should say back up lights.
or you can press the manual brake and put wheel chocks, put ignition on,do not start the truck.
put it in reverse and your factory reverse light should light up.
go with voltmeter on the 7way connector and locate the wire that has power,only when back up lights are on.
if you leave voltmeter on,and see the voltage, go and put it in park, then back up lights will shut down,and you wont see any voltage on voltmeter.
thats your back up + wire.
put both + wires from the led and connect them there.
the ground - wires should go in chassis or if you find a negative - wire.
and wolllaaa, you have extra back up lights.
Dimce Gligorov yyou got sum.ideas
What a super video! I really like that you were able to get some great closeup shots of everything coming together. It isn't easy getting underneath the truck, much less getting clear focused shots of the wiring. Very informative!
Bababooey...
I'm setting up a Fuse block, breaker, and relay to run some electronics and this was the best explanation for the use of a relay! thank you.
Could I use these if I have 5% window tint on my rear windows?
That is what I have in my truck which is why I got the lights!
Factory reverse lights are a joke! Even with LED bulbs. I need to get me some extra reverse lights soon
+Zach Novosad yea it's amazing how bad the factory reverse lights are
+ChrisFix I've even noticed it with headlights. I wish I could drive around on the main roads with my LED light bar on.
yeah, I've got a legacy wagon w/ limo tint. even w/ 1,000 lumen LED reverse bulbs it's still barely adequate.....i'll be doing the same thing. saw a couple people do this as well on their 2nd gen prii...
+kevinjfeeney77 yeah. My led bulbs aren't any brighter than the old ones. About the same in non tinted lights. For $14 on Amazon you can get a set of little LED light bars cheap that are really bright. I'm not one to normally advocate buying cheap lights like that but for the price you can't complain
kevinjfeeney77 I ended picking up some lights. Boy do they make a difference. I can see everything when backing up now
Chris fix can u make more of the super clean videos I useful please
Very good thank you
Back in the day I has a 1973 Corvette with header and sidepipes. That left rectangular holes in the back of the car that were a perfect fit for halogen lights. I hooked them up to a toggle switch which gave me great back up lights. But what was even better was when the a§§holes would come behind me with there high beams blinding me I would flip the switch for a second and you would be amazed at how fast they shut the high beams off!
Chris this was a very good how to video, your description with the relay was perfect. This was very detailed from start to finish. Thank you this will help me in my wiring projects.
Bababooey...
Take a shot every time he says crimp.
Nate Lore or “good”
I did. I'm real fucked up now
Got alcohol poisoning
Drink potato juice and I win!!!
Jk I am wuss drinking apple.
Day: 2345 of waiting for the "How a Relay Works" video.
:o
@@chrisfix :D
Dielectric grease on all connections. You'll thank me later.
I can agree with that. Those staycons on the relay are going to corrode and break off over time. Also the relay should have been installed with in the factory fuse/ relay box.
@@jordanz99 Or use a relay that comes with the waterproof cover on the opposite side. You pin it up similar to the three pronged waterproof connectors he used at the end on the lights.
OMG, Didn't remember the time when Chris bare hands did the job not the smurf new hands! :D Now, seriously, one of the best explanation and graphics about how a relay works ever, I've screenshooted for my own reference in the future! Great job as usual Chris! Thanks a lot!
Chris
Flush Mounted the Reverse lights in to my Bumper and wired the lights right into my Factory reverse lights, no need to hook up Relay or run extra wires, the lights still work after 6 months.
Thanks for sharing!
You mean "Anti-Tailgater lights"?
haha check it out: instagram.com/p/76CEqwujCz
ChrisFix
Very nice! I know its illegal but... A flash from those lights would make them stay back more than a few car lengths.
I have done it before and it does work! Ends up being safer because they get off your back!
ChrisFix
That does make sense. Guess I'll be visiting this video again when my anti tailgater lights come in!
When I reverse in the Dark, I always use the Rear Fog Lights. lol.
Wait wut there’s rear fog lights?
"When on a trail" And you hang lights low. Girl you don't wheel...
instagram.com/p/CDu-Q_CBgP6/
Thanks for sharing!
I love your videos. I wish I found your channel earlier so I could have fixed my car. Next car I get and if it has a problem definitely watching your videos to fix it. Always been interested in cars but never had anyone to show me how to fix them. So now I watch your videos and realize how much mechanics rip you off. Trying to go back to school to be a mechanic. You make working on cars fun and interesting. Keep it up and thanks for the great videos.
Awesome Jennifer! I am glad the videos are helpful and enjoyable!!
You did a great job with this video "But" you made a eazy install into a very long complicated way to install those lights by installing a relay to a very simple job. However that's just my opinion and aside from all that, thank for a great video that I'm sure many found very helpful. Have a awesome day sir
Butt connecter xD
lol wow
FalconM&M hilarious
No offense, you have great mechanical videos, but your wiring is shit. But still works, and is protected so this works also.
Thanks this is an old video.
Wow, I really thought you wouldn’t see this... now I kinda feel bad, since I actually love your vids. But, you did good on your truck setup though 👍🏼
Lol as an electrician my first thought was the ground is always green lol but I probably would have Ist used a waterproof wirenut and electrical tape instead of soldering just me. I thought he did a good job myself.
Chris, can you splice into the connector for your trailer hitch. Instead of the tail lights? Or get your power from their instead of the battery?
lmao.. $300
That doesnt seem like 4300 lumens does it?
Chris, your videos are simply the best. Perhaps some day you can do a video on how to make a connection using the upfitter switches on an F-350.
First off, that was a great instructional step by step, detailed video...thanks for posting. If your truck came with a factory trailer pkg & your engaging the LED with your reverse light, why didn't you just wire the ground & power wire directly to the factory trailer harness wires? I'm not knocking your way by any means as I'm no pro but it seems much easier to tie into the trailer harness. Thanks
What a well done video. Very direct, thorough, and easy to follow, especially for those that are not electricians. If I can understand this video and upon completion of my efforts everything works just fine, then others will be able to follow it also. I will surely save this video. If you ever do a video on using Fords Uplitters, I will surely watch out for it. I have watched others but I enjoyed your teaching, coaching, and mentoring. I really appreciate watching these kinds of videos. Mahalo for taking the time.
Bababooey
Once again, i searched for a how to and it brought me to a Chris Fix Video...
Another good instructional video made by Chris!
I would’ve used the hot wire to the taillight. When it’s dark enough to need your lights is when you would typically need extra light for reversing. But great install anyway. And those things are SUPER bright.
I love your channel but as a retired law man, I would put in an override switch somewhere so that when you are on the street and must back up, you are not cited for an excessively white reverse light. That light is beyond, "dazzling" and much brighter than the original engineered reverse lights. If an office can get P.C. to stop you, you may not like what happens next. Think about it; you are backing up at a local gas station and the brightness causes a wreck.... liability for damages to both property and person. Your insurance could theoretically not cover you for the modification especially if the box reads, "OFF ROAD USE ONLY." Now, on to my next Chris Fix video!
Chris, in the place where you added the ground wire to pin 85 of the relay, you sand papered the bolt you used for the ground connection on a small bracket bolt, but you missed the other two bolts grounding the bracket to the frame.
You needed to sand paper that bolt also because it was the only ground connection to the actual frame.