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Installing Auxiliary Lights

Illuminating the night

Vehicles intended for off-road or inclement-weather use can often benefit from auxiliary lighting. Stock headlights are fine for normal city and highway driving, but people who drive in foggy conditions, explore off-pavement trails in the deep wilderness or participate in weekend rallies are safer seeing more of the road and its surroundings than factory lighting can illuminate. In effect, auxiliary lighting can improve safety and driving enjoyment. A well-rounded (so to speak) variety of auxiliary lighting is available. The actual lights come in different sizes and intensity as well as pricing.

Legalities

Not all auxiliary lights are approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for public-road use. We've all been temporarily blinded by pseudo laser beams from oncoming vehicles. This is usually due to misaligned headlights, but can also be because of too-powerful-for-the-street aftermarket auxiliary lighting.

Fortunately, many auxiliary lights use easily replaceable halogen bulbs, which come in various output ratings: both DOT-approved and for "off-road use only." So, bulbs can be swapped to suit the situation. When replacing bulbs, it's always a good idea to wear gloves because skin oil can affect the bulb's lifespan. Overall, most auxiliary lights and accessories are labeled in terms of their DOT compliance.

Also, be sure to check state laws that regulate the number and power of auxiliary lights, and for wiring details. (For example, fog lights should be wired to work with the headlights in low-beam mode only.) Additional information is available from the lighting manufacturers and from automotive accessories businesses; check enthusiast web sites and magazines for your vehicle for contact information.

Installation

Instructions come with all accessory lights, and many lighting kits are designed with the do-it-yourselfer in mind. For less-experienced home mechanics, many kits come with pre-wired harnesses that make the electrical part of the job largely a plug-and-go affair. However, since all vehicles are different, the exact routing of the wiring harness and placement of the relay and switches will depend on the application.

Since this is an electrical project, it's a good idea to disconnect the battery until all connections are made. Finally, be sure the auxiliary lights are properly aimed following installation. Park the vehicle close to a wall and turn on all lights. The auxiliary lights should complement the factory lights, not overpower them.

Tools/Accessories

Necessary tools:

> wrenches

> wire stripper/crimper

> pliers

> screwdrivers

You may also need:

> tie-wraps

> electrical tape

> multi-meter

> drill (if mounting holes are not pre-drilled)