Basic Install: Bumper mounted LEDs with Switch

[Gonzo318]

I need a little help. I've been searching the forum all day. The search function seems to not let me search as specific as I need to. I've been looking for a how to, but haven't been able to find anything basic enough.

I have two flush mount LED cubes and a push button switch on order. I can figure out how to mount the cubes in the bumper, but since the only thing I've ever wired was my headunit (which was essentially plug and play) I need some help wiring the switch. I didn't want to run it to the existing reverse lights, because I don't need it on every time I reverse, and I want to be able to turn it on when not reversing.

The switch is going to go in one of the blanks behind the shifter and (I think) comes with a wiring harness.

Where do I start?

 

[Gonzo318]

Got the lights in. They did come with a wiring harness. Didn't unroll them all the way, but appear to have a relay and fuse built in. Any idea what power wire I can tap these into, or should I run a line from the battery? The diagram seems pretty straight forward.
Help is much appreciated.

 

[JLRSR5]

I think some people will pull the tail light and tap into the reverse lights for power, or one of the other wires coming off the tail light. Never have done this but have just seen some of what others do.

Also heard its good to have a heat gun or hair dryer to heat the bumper to help the plastic flex and mold better to the flush mount light when you install.

 

[Gonzo318]

I think some people will pull the tail light and tap into the reverse lights for power, or one of the other wires coming off the tail light. Never have done this but have just seen some of what others do.

Also heard its good to have a heat gun or hair dryer to heat the bumper to help the plastic flex and mold better to the flush mount light when you install.

Thanks. Would I need to tap into a wire that's always hot? I found a write-up while I was googling.

LED Backup Lamps in '03-'05 Rear Reflector Lens

I may try this one if the spot above the reflector doesn't work out, but I'll have to measure it first.

 

[Gonzo318]

Looks like the cubes will be too big for the reflectors, luckily they came with a stencil.

I was going to try this one:

4th gen rigid led reverse flush mount project

But come to find out, the reflector isn't the only difference in the bumper of early and late 4th gens.

Is the spot on the bumper above the reflector hollow (see below)?

 

[Gonzo318]

I found a video to remove the side cover on the bumper. I'll pull that off tomorrow and see what's behind there.

 

[Gonzo318]

Found this pic on another thread (linked earlier). How big are those holes? Could they be cut larger to fit the light? Anything behind it? Any structural issues?

 

[JLRSR5]

I would think if you want the ability to turn on and off at will and not only when the reverse lights are on, I'd think you tap into an always hot one, but I know nothing about wiring.

I think the spot above the reflectors would work. Looks like they are meant to be there.

 

[LordAbdullah]

Did you consider using the 3D printed reflector housing @TiN sells? Would look super clean and ends up being ample bright for reverse floods.

 

[97BlackAckCL]

Did you consider using the 3D printed reflector housing @TiN sells? Would look super clean and ends up being ample bright for reverse floods.

Definitely look into this rather than hacking up the reflectors, first thing I thought of was TiN's 3d printer

 

[Gonzo318]

This one? Quick and easy rear bumper led cube retrofit

 

[Gonzo318]

Finally found a detailed install thread that includes wiring info.

How To: Reverse Lights on the 4runners.com boards

Auxiliary backup light installation and this one on here that talks about wiring, but doesn't have as many pictures

I'll post some pictures of my process once I get started.