My GC add on front lights

[FDuce]

As you all know the FEL bucket blocks the headlights of almost any tractor. This is what I came up with to shoot the light under the bucket when it is in the mid position while the tractor is moving. The lights are tied into the headlight wiring so everything operates off of the factory switch. I did have to upgrade the fuse from a 10A to 15A. I know that you can't use these with a blade or snowblower attachment because the bracket mounts to the mounting holes for the front implements. I also didn't add lights to my ROPS because I keep it at an angle to get in and out of the garage so putting lights on that would be a funky deal to get them aimed correctly. Anyways, here's some pics. Constructive criticism welcome.

 

[chuckd1277]

I like that location, never really thought of that. How sturdy is the bracket (in case you bump into something)? How do you like your GC? Im getting close to pulling the trigger on a GC2600.

 

[FDuce]

The bracket is 1/8" steel and bolted directly to the frame so it should be sturdy. If there is enough intrest I have a second design in mind and may start producing them.

As for the tractor, I love it for what I am using it for right now. I wish it had some other features like a QA FEL bucket and I wish the bucket was a little more heavy duty both of which are features on the JD. Aside from that, none of the other brands stand up to the Massy. If you need any convincing just put them side by side...the GC will stick out like a sore thumb....actually more like a stronger built, better designed thumb.:thumbsup:

 

[chuckd1277]

Thanks FDuce,

Do you have a MMM? If not, do you know if the bracket for the lights would interfere with one?

 

[FDuce]

I do not have a MMM but it looks like you can put something sticking out further than the frame to give clearance for the mower attachment. I wanted mine behind the frame front edge for more protection because I mainly use mine in the woods and I thought it would be better when I get pushing logs and stuff kicks up. If you don't have a FEL then you will have more options for mounting and if you plan on more yard/maintenence work then you may be able to get away with just having them mounted out front.

 

[bmarian]

Hi FDuce,

This is a GREAAAT idea! I was thinking of changing to LED headlights because I noticed I have one burned out bulb. So maybe if I can find a LED fog light I will use the SFO method of mounting the lights. When I park my GC2410 I need to lift the bucket up about 18" which does a really good job of blocking the headlights. Plus if you use fog lights they usually have a wider pattern which might illuminate a little to the side of the loader bucket.

SFO for those of you not familiar with the term is: Steal From Others in this case in reference to the idea to mount lights in that location.

Bruce

 

[buckowens]

Very clever idea, and one of the best reasons to be a part of this board! Thanks for the ideas and Happy Holidays!

 

[Topkicker]

Great idea. Looks good too. Nice job.:thumbsup:

 

[radioman]

Its a good idea, but I think you will need to have a grill fence protection added. It's so low , something is going to get hit there.

 

[bmarian]

I had a Pep Boys gift card so I went down there today and found a set of LED fog lights. They are about 3 1/2" in diameter and have mounting brackets included. I tested them in the garage tonight and the lights are very bright but they don't spread as much as the fog lights on the cars. They are brighter than the headlights and it seems like the pair draws about 1 amp. I will hook them up with a inline amp meter to check the actual current draw. They were very expensive at $ 50.00 but with the gift card.....

I am thinking of mounting them on the tie rod end, then when I turn the steering wheel they will also turn. It looks like I can remove the nut from the tie rod end and put a small bracket under the nut and tighten it up. Maybe a piece of sheet metal with a hole to clear the stud. Then I need to figure out how to route the wires so they stay out of the way when the wheels are turned. The good news is the fog lights have both the positive and negative wires so they will not need a ground.

Keep in mind my GC2410 does not go in the woods and I try to not even get it wet except for when I wash it. I do wonder if there would be a way to mount some of the other LED fog lights that I see on ebay on the tractor for work lights on the ROPS and maybe even on the backhoe. The LED Fog Lights on ebay are much more reasonably priced and I could use the spare power connector. Or maybe if I replace the headlights and tail lights with LED bulbs I could put a couple more LED worklights on the rear of the tractor. I also noticed there were several 18 and 24 watt LED off road lights for Jeeps etc on ebay, maybe one or two of those mounted under the ROPS connected to the spare power connector.

I have a bunch of 3 watt LED Maglight flashlights and they are super bright so I can only imagine what a 18 watt LED would light up.

Anyway, Happy New Year and I attached a couple pictures of the lights more to come when I mount them. The picture of the light pattern on the wall show it about a foot wide from 4 feet. The light is just powered by a watch battery, the pattern is wider when it is hooked up to 12 volts.

Bruce