RE: LED Work Lights

MacTractor · Jan 17, 2013

RE: LED Work Lights

I recently picked up a new to me JD 2320 and as part of the deal I asked the Dealer to install some worklights. The tractor only has a 20 Amp altenator so going LED was really the only way to go in my mind unless I upgraded the altenator.

The problem was that the dealer took the path of least resistance and but both of them off the inward bolts of where the signal lights are. One was facing forward and one rear facing. The forward one was useless as it was basically behind my elbow. I was happy with the light from them, just not the position of them.

Last night I bit the bullet and respositioned them in a manner that I think works great. I didn't drill, I just used zip ties (Maybe a little red neck?)

Next I need to buy a good waterproof switch as they are wired to the lights of the tractor, so I should have a switch as they are basically blinding if I need to run it down the street.

Anyone else trust zip ties for this? They don't move at all as I used a piece from an LCD TV bracket I have that had rubber on one side and then a slot on the other for the lights to bolt up.

Cheers,

mikehaugen · Jan 17, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

nothing wrong with a little "redneck".

If you are looking for a little better maybe use ss hose clamps around a piece of cork or rubber wrapped around the ROPS to protect the paint.

msb1766 · Jan 17, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

I ordered some switches yesterday from:DigiKey Corporation - Electronic Components Distributor

I have not received them yet, I could not find ant water resistant switches localy.
I orderd a green and blue led pushbutton switches.
GPB527D2B02BG1 CW Industries | CW251-ND | DigiKey

GPB527D2B02BU1 CW Industries | CW253-ND | DigiKey

sixdogs · Jan 17, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

Mine have been zip tied on for 15 or more years. I used a longer size so the plastic was thicker but have had zero problems.

newt92 · Jan 17, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

The way I have mine hooked up on my tractors, I have to have the headlights on, but I have a switch inline so I can shut the LEDs off if I want. I just use switches from Auto Zone, not water proof, but havent had any problems. Tractors are stored inside but do get washed or caught out in the rain from time to time.

Scooby074 · Jan 17, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

How are the lights held to the ROPS, cable ties?

You might want to gear up some u-bolts for a more solid install.

Switches? Have a look at the Carling switches, most are waterproof. Sealed Rocker Switches | carlingtech.com They are very high quality. I just used one on my LED install http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/customization/266049-bx-led-worklight-upgrade.html . I see your in New Brunswick, Carling switches are available under the "Blue Sea" brand from Strait Mackay, a marine wholesaler in Nova Scotia, they have dealers all over : Stright-MacKay Marine Equipment

MacTractor · Jan 18, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

Thanks for the info. Never thought of the marine side for the switches.

They are held on by cable ties but they are in a bracket that has a large flat part that is where the cable ties come in. There are a number of them there and there is no movement so I would think they would hold. Time will tell I guess. They are UV rated ties as well, so they should not deteriorate in the sun.

I have attached a better picture of the bracket. Again, Redneck, but I work with what I have.....

Scooby074 said:
How are the lights held to the ROPS, cable ties?

You might want to gear up some u-bolts for a more solid install.

Switches? Have a look at the Carling switches, most are waterproof. Sealed Rocker Switches | carlingtech.com They are very high quality. I just used one on my LED install http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/customization/266049-bx-led-worklight-upgrade.html . I see your in New Brunswick, Carling switches are available under the "Blue Sea" brand from Strait Mackay, a marine wholesaler in Nova Scotia, they have dealers all over : Stright-MacKay Marine Equipment

Scooby074 · Jan 18, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

MacTractor said:
Thanks for the info. Never thought of the marine side for the switches.

They are held on by cable ties but they are in a bracket that has a large flat part that is where the cable ties come in. There are a number of them there and there is no movement so I would think they would hold. Time will tell I guess. They are UV rated ties as well, so they should not deteriorate in the sun.

I have attached a better picture of the bracket. Again, Redneck, but I work with what I have.....

View attachment 298208

I'd probably make that bracket you have into a T, then some metal ubolts (see my thread for ideas). I think that if you get that mount into some branches (very easy to do) the cable ties will snap. Up to you, but if you have a welder you could make the T for under $5.

PeterK · Jan 18, 2013

Re: LED Work Lights

I've found that zip ties dry up over time and break apart. You can get stainless steel ties at HF. But I agree on the bracket and not that hard to fab up.

alleycatdad · Jan 18, 2013

I used big magnets from harbor freight both for the lights and the switch box. I only need light in the winter so I can pull the whole works and not beat up the lights all summer. Can also just reach up and point em where I need em.

Steve