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DIY - Daytime running lights for Activa
After seeing all these Audis and BMWs and the like with DRLs, i hit upon an idea to install DRL (Daytime Running Lights) on my activa.
Initially i was looking to construct the LED strips myself, but I found these led strips just perfect for the project. These are tough, waterproof and easy to install.
Usually these are available as DIY kits, but one of my friend got them assembled so it saved me time of assembly.
These are also available on DealExtreme something like these :
Waterproof 4.8W 475nm 60x3528 SMD LED Blue Light Strip (DC 12V) - Free Shipping - DealExtreme
1. Installation:
These led strips almost fit directly into the indicator holder. I had to make a small notch so as to get the screwholder into the notch. On the other side, i used a small screw to fix it so it stays firm.
I plan to install 2 more strips inside the headlight assembly, but it is a time consuming process to open up the headlight, so left it for next time.
2. Wiring:
As the circuit diagram show, i took the +ve supply from the junction of the brake lights as this goes live once you turn on the ignition switch. For the ground we can use any metallic body part, I connected to the headlight ground.
Also i installed a 2 pin connector so it becomes easy to remove the headlight assembly easily.
The pictures will give you a fair amount of idea as to how it looks. It looks bright at night.
DRL V-2.0:
After getting some great comments from fellow members i have tried some modifications and mounted DRLs above the indicator which will not confuse vehicles from the opposite direction, also the color is white just like the DRLs found on high-end cars.
^^ I used these strips to make the drls. Usually these can be cut at the golden track into separate strips of 3 LEDs. I used 2 strips (6 leds) per side.
^^ This is how the holes were made so that the leds fit into them. Initially i had planned to mount them below the indicator (as u can see the holes) but those are not easily visible from the front, so mounted them above. had to seal those holes with hot melt glue gun. The glue gun is very handy for DIY stuff. Still need to figure out how to cover the DRL led holes with some kind of transparent film or sheet which will be protect the leds from dust and water (suggestions welcome).
^^ This is how it looks in the evening, quite bright and enhances visibility.
^^ Taken at daytime in the basement parking. Will also post one in daylight shortly which will give idea about LED visibility.
^ DRL with Angel Eye for Activa.
Initially i was looking to construct the LED strips myself, but I found these led strips just perfect for the project. These are tough, waterproof and easy to install.
Usually these are available as DIY kits, but one of my friend got them assembled so it saved me time of assembly.
These are also available on DealExtreme something like these :
Waterproof 4.8W 475nm 60x3528 SMD LED Blue Light Strip (DC 12V) - Free Shipping - DealExtreme
1. Installation:
These led strips almost fit directly into the indicator holder. I had to make a small notch so as to get the screwholder into the notch. On the other side, i used a small screw to fix it so it stays firm.
I plan to install 2 more strips inside the headlight assembly, but it is a time consuming process to open up the headlight, so left it for next time.
2. Wiring:
As the circuit diagram show, i took the +ve supply from the junction of the brake lights as this goes live once you turn on the ignition switch. For the ground we can use any metallic body part, I connected to the headlight ground.
Also i installed a 2 pin connector so it becomes easy to remove the headlight assembly easily.
The pictures will give you a fair amount of idea as to how it looks. It looks bright at night.
DRL V-2.0:
After getting some great comments from fellow members i have tried some modifications and mounted DRLs above the indicator which will not confuse vehicles from the opposite direction, also the color is white just like the DRLs found on high-end cars.
^^ I used these strips to make the drls. Usually these can be cut at the golden track into separate strips of 3 LEDs. I used 2 strips (6 leds) per side.
^^ This is how the holes were made so that the leds fit into them. Initially i had planned to mount them below the indicator (as u can see the holes) but those are not easily visible from the front, so mounted them above. had to seal those holes with hot melt glue gun. The glue gun is very handy for DIY stuff. Still need to figure out how to cover the DRL led holes with some kind of transparent film or sheet which will be protect the leds from dust and water (suggestions welcome).
^^ This is how it looks in the evening, quite bright and enhances visibility.
^^ Taken at daytime in the basement parking. Will also post one in daylight shortly which will give idea about LED visibility.
^ DRL with Angel Eye for Activa.
!!!
.
, which is white in color, so either i have to get orange LED bulb and put transparent covers. 
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