Baja Designs as Foglight replacement

[South-O 4RnR]

I rarely use my fogs on the road, and I like the look of a stock-ish truck. I want to replace my fogs with a light that will give me extra coverage while exploring and expedition camping.

I'm not a fan of HID's in the stock housing, and a easy bulb replacement isn't going to cut it either. I've seen a few who installed Rigid duallys in place of the fogs, but I'd like something a little bit better.

Baja Designs puts out some of the best LEDs in the industry. Their squadron XL-R is similar in size and shape to the factory fogs and 4300k lumens each is some serious light. Since these would eventually be complimented by one of their OnX light bars, I'm thinking of going with the 'wide cornering' output pattern.

My question is this; Assuming our fogs only draw 35w, would I need to stick with a product drawing under 35w to allow the use of stock fog wiring? These draw 42w each.

At what point does a replacement fog light become more than a fog? If aimed properly, would these still be considered street legal, or would you put them in the same category as HID in reflector housing (not safe for oncoming traffic)?

Spec sheet- http://http://www.bajadesigns.com/science-of-lighting/squadron-data-sheet

 

[HokieRunner]

I rarely use my fogs on the road, and I like the look of a stock-ish truck. I want to replace my fogs with a light that will give me extra coverage while exploring and expedition camping.

I'm not a fan of HID's in the stock housing, and a easy bulb replacement isn't going to cut it either. I've seen a few who installed Rigid duallys in place of the fogs, but I'd like something a little bit better.

Baja Designs puts out some of the best LEDs in the industry. Their squadron XL-R is similar in size and shape to the factory fogs and 4300k lumens each is some serious light. Since these would eventually be complimented by one of their OnX light bars, I'm thinking of going with the 'wide cornering' output pattern.

My question is this; Assuming our fogs only draw 35w, would I need to stick with a product drawing under 35w to allow the use of stock fog wiring? These draw 42w each.

At what point does a replacement fog light become more than a fog? If aimed properly, would these still be considered street legal, or would you put them in the same category as HID in reflector housing (not safe for oncoming traffic)?

Spec sheet- http://http://www.bajadesigns.com/science-of-lighting/squadron-data-sheet

Those look nice. Just to clarify, those are definitely driving lights and not fog lights (just a pet peeve of mine that most low mounted supplemental lights are referred to as 'fog lights' these days...when they're not).

Also you had 4300k lumens. The 4300 lumens is correct but they're listed as 5000k for color. Again - sure you noticed but just clarifying.

Finally, onto your question - while you probably can use the factory wiring (I have no clue what gauge it is etc) I'd run a relay and fresh wiring. Use the stockwiring to trigger your relay.

Also - any aftermarket lighting is illegal. So you can be ticketed for it, fail inspection for it, etc at least here in VA. Now, if you aim it properly it shouldn't attract unwanted attention and you'll probably be fine for street use. But just be aware it probably is illegal. Of course, that hasn't stopped most of us from adding lights!

If you plan on using this for offroad/inclement weather, may want to consider a true fog light. I only use mine in the low/zero visibility conditions (snow storm outtings and heavy fog/rain), but the yellow fogs are life savers and really help with eye strain/fatigue.

Post up if/when you get them mounted.

 

[South-O 4RnR]

Hokie- I appreciate the feedback and clarifications. I tried to tread lightly on this subject as I've seen many members get flamed for going against the grain in the lighting department. After recently completing a retro on my projectors and installing the 4300k TRS retro-quik kit, the stock fogs need some help.

One of the things I liked about this light is the ability to modify the light after it's been installed. They sell replacement lens covers, so I figured I'd put install a yellow lens to help in the event of foul weather.

I'd agree that it's smarter/safer to run new wires and a relay and then just use the factory switch. I'm an electrical noob, so this sounds easier said than done.

Now I need to pull the bumper and see about getting the light to mount in the fog location.

BTW- always enjoy going through your build thread.

 

[wmiranda]

Those look nice. Just to clarify, those are definitely driving lights and not fog lights (just a pet peeve of mine that most low mounted supplemental lights are referred to as 'fog lights' these days...when they're not).

Also you had 4300k lumens. The 4300 lumens is correct but they're listed as 5000k for color. Again - sure you noticed but just clarifying.

Finally, onto your question - while you probably can use the factory wiring (I have no clue what gauge it is etc) I'd run a relay and fresh wiring. Use the stockwiring to trigger your relay.

Also - any aftermarket lighting is illegal. So you can be ticketed for it, fail inspection for it, etc at least here in VA. Now, if you aim it properly it shouldn't attract unwanted attention and you'll probably be fine for street use. But just be aware it probably is illegal. Of course, that hasn't stopped most of us from adding lights!

If you plan on using this for offroad/inclement weather, may want to consider a true fog light. I only use mine in the low/zero visibility conditions (snow storm outtings and heavy fog/rain), but the yellow fogs are life savers and really help with eye strain/fatigue.

Post up if/when you get them mounted.

Actually there are several aftermarket lights you can use in Virginia. And if not listed the fact that the law states that if not listed, any SAE certified light with the appropriate markings are allowed. I have aftermarket lights on all my vehicles.

Virginia State Police - Safety Division

 

[Dpassmore]

I run one on my dirt bike and it's a bad ass light.

 

[Davy180]

This has me wondering too, the Amber wide cornering XL-R sport lights look nice.

 

[South-O 4RnR]

I just picked up a set of XL pro's to play with. I'll report back with my findings. These puppies are huge!