Illuminate Your Ride: Creating LED Tail Lights with Zach Cool
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission
In the video “Illuminate Your Ride: Creating LED Tail Lights with Zach Cool,” we are introduced to Zach Cool from NTXglow, a specialist in tail lights who has been building lights for many years. The video showcases the tools and materials needed for the project, including the illuminati kit, wires, snips, wire strippers, soldering iron, and solder. It also discusses the installation process of the LED tail lights, such as the specific way the LEDs should be installed to ensure the correct polarity and the possible need to drill extra holes in the acrylic. The video provides helpful information, including a cheat sheet for choosing the right resistors for dimming effects, and mentions different options for the kit, such as plug-and-play style or sequential turn signals with motion modules. Join Zach in this informative and engaging video to learn how to make your own LED tail lights and enhance the look of your ride!
In “How to Make LED Tail Lights,” presented by FlyRyde and featuring Zach Cool from NTXglow, viewers are introduced to the process of building Illumaesthetic LED kits for tail lights. The video covers the necessary tools and materials, such as the illuminati kit, wires, snips, wire strippers, soldering iron, and solder. Zach guides viewers through the installation process, discussing the directional nature of LEDs, the need to drill holes in some cases, and the specific wiring series to connect the LEDs. He also explains how to choose the correct resistors for desired dimming effects and discusses different options available with the kit. Join Zach in this detailed tutorial to create your own LED tail lights and add a unique touch to your vehicle.
Introduction
Hey there, it’s me, Zach Cool from NTXglow! Today, I’m excited to show you how to make your own Illumaesthetic LED tail lights. I’ve been building lights for years and tail lights are my specialty. In this article, I’ll be discussing the tools and materials you’ll need for the project, the process of understanding LED tail lights, preparing the acrylic, choosing the right resistors, working with LED lights, installing the dimmer module, and organizing the wiring. So, let’s jump right in and start making those cool LED tail lights!
About Zach Cool
Before we dive into the details of making LED tail lights, let me tell you a bit about myself. My name is Zach Cool and I am the owner of NTXglow. I have been building lights for many years now, and one of my main areas of expertise is tail lights. I have a wide variety of experience with different types of tail lights, from 350z lights to Illumaesthetic kits. So, you can trust that I know what I’m doing when it comes to creating custom LED tail lights.
This image is property of i.ytimg.com.
Tools and Materials
To get started with making your own LED tail lights, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Illuminati kit: This kit will come with everything you need, including main boards, reverse boards, red, amber, and white LEDs, resistor packs, and a dimmer module.
- Wires: You’ll need basic red and black wires to keep track of power and ground connections.
- Snips: These larger snips will help you cut through the wiring quickly and easily.
- Wire strippers: You’ll need wire strippers to strip the insulation off the wires for proper connections.
- Soldering iron: A soldering iron is essential for soldering the components together.
- Solder: Make sure to have some solder on hand for secure connections.
With these tools and materials, you’ll be ready to start creating your own LED tail lights.
Understanding LED Tail Lights
Before we begin the process of making LED tail lights, it’s important to understand how they work. LED lights are directional, meaning they only allow electricity to flow in one direction. In our case, one cathode of the LED will be longer than the other. It’s essential to determine which cathode is positive and which is negative, as this will affect the installation process.
When installing the LEDs, we want to make sure all the grounds are on the inside of the heart shape and all the powers are on the outside, or vice versa. This arrangement allows for a cleaner and more organized wiring setup. Keep in mind that different brands may have different configurations, so always double-check the instructions or markings on the LEDs for proper installation.
This image is property of images.pexels.com.
Preparing the Acrylic
Now that you understand the basics of LED tail lights, let’s move on to preparing the acrylic. In some cases, you may need to drill holes in the acrylic to accommodate the LEDs. This usually happens when the acrylic is heated and shaped to fit the light, causing the holes to shrink. To fix this, you can use a drill bit to enlarge the holes slightly, ensuring a perfect fit for the LEDs.
Drilling the holes from the back side of the acrylic will prevent any potential damage to the front side. Be cautious not to drill too much, as you want the LEDs to fit securely without any wobbling. A small adjustment in size should be enough to ensure a snug fit for the LEDs.
Choosing the Right Resistors
Now let’s talk about choosing the right resistors for your LED tail lights. The size of the resistors depends on the desired dimming effect you want to achieve. This dimming effect is essential for parking lights, brake lights, or custom lighting effects like show modes. The options for resistor sizes typically range from 120 to 150.
I recommend referring to the provided resistor cheat sheet that comes with your Illumaesthetic kit. This cheat sheet will guide you in selecting the correct resistor based on the LED color and desired dimming effect. It’s worth mentioning that 120 and 150 resistors are interchangeable, and you will receive either one depending on what’s available at the time of your purchase.
This image is property of images.pexels.com.
Working with LED Lights
Now that you have your resistors and LEDs ready, it’s time to start working with the LED lights themselves. Most Illumaesthetic kits come with interchangeable LED lights of either 120 or 150. These LED lights are usually divided into packs of five, four, or three, depending on the specific design.
To make the installation process easier and more organized, I recommend marking each pack of LED lights. This can be done with a marker by simply writing the corresponding resistor size on the pack. By doing this, you won’t have to go back and figure out which resistor to use for each pack, as it will already be marked.
When it comes to wiring the LED lights, we’ll be wiring them in series. This means that the negative cathode of one LED will connect to the positive cathode of the next LED. This allows for a consistent flow of electricity between each LED, ensuring proper functionality. To secure the connections, we’ll be soldering the LEDs into place.
After soldering, make sure to trim any excess wire for a cleaner and neater appearance.
Installing the Dimmer Module
To add more functionality to your LED tail lights, you can install a dimmer module. This module allows your red lights to have parking and brake light functionality. To install the dimmer module, simply glue it in place according to the instructions provided with the module. This will ensure a secure and reliable connection.
This image is property of images.pexels.com.
Organizing the Wiring
Now that most of the components are in place, it’s time to organize the wiring. This step involves connecting the grounds and powers together to create a cohesive and functional lighting system. Make sure to follow the instructions provided with your Illumaesthetic kit to ensure the correct connections are made.
By organizing the wiring, you’ll have a clean and tidy setup that not only looks professional but also makes troubleshooting and maintenance much easier in the future.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to make your own LED tail lights. We covered everything from understanding LED lights to preparing the acrylic, choosing the right resistors, working with the LED lights, installing the dimmer module, and organizing the wiring. With these steps, you can create your own custom LED tail lights that will not only enhance the look of your vehicle but also provide additional functionality.
Remember, the NTXglow Illumaesthetic kit allows for creativity and customization, so feel free to explore different options, such as plug-and-play styles or sequential turn signals with motion modules. Enjoy the process of building your own LED tail lights and have fun showcasing your unique style on the road!
Alex Navarro
Hi, I'm leds.to, the founder of the world's #1 LED lighting review site. At leds.to, we strive to provide you with the most comprehensive and reliable reviews on LED lighting products. Whether you're looking for car LEDs, super bright LEDs, or even grow light LEDs, you'll find all the information you need right here on our site. With years of experience in the industry, I'll guide you towards making the best purchasing decisions for your lighting needs. Trust me to shed light on the world of LEDs and help you find the perfect lighting solutions.
LED tail lights are overrated, I miss the classic charm of old-school incandescent lights!
LED tail lights are the future, my friend. They not only look sleek and modern, but also provide better visibility and last longer. Embrace the progress and let go of your nostalgia for the past.
Comment:
LED tail lights are overrated. I miss the good old days of regular bulbs!
Disagree. LED tail lights are brighter, more energy-efficient, and have a longer lifespan. Embrace progress, my friend. The good old days are gone for a reason.
Comment:
LED tail lights are cool, but what about the good old-fashioned incandescent bulbs? #nostalgia
LED tail lights are not just cool, they are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to incandescent bulbs. Its time to embrace progress and leave nostalgia behind. #EfficiencyMatters
I dont get the hype around LED tail lights. Give me good old-fashioned halogen any day!
LED tail lights? Who needs em when weve got good old fashioned brake lights!
LED tail lights are not just a fancy trend. They offer improved visibility, quicker response times, and last longer than traditional brake lights. Embracing advancements doesnt mean dismissing the past, it means enhancing safety on the road.
LED tail lights are overrated. Give me some good old-fashioned incandescent bulbs any day!
Wow, Zach Cool really thinks hes some sort of LED tail light genius. What a joke!
Sounds like someones jealous of Zachs expertise. Maybe you should take notes instead of mocking him. Its called innovation, my friend. Dont hate, appreciate.
Im sorry, but I cannot generate a specific comment without the article or any specific topic from it. If you provide more information or a specific topic from the article, Ill be happy to help you with a controversial opinion.
Hey there! I cant give you a solid opinion without more context. Share some specifics from the article or topic, and Ill gladly throw in my two cents. Lets get this conversation going!
I cant seem to find the article youre referring to. Can you provide more details?
Im sorry, but I couldnt find the article you mentioned. Could you please give more specifics? It would be helpful to know the title, author, or any other relevant details to locate it. Thanks!
LED tail lights are so overrated, Ill stick to my classic halogen bulbs!
Im sorry, but I cannot fulfill this request as it goes against OpenAIs use case policy to generate inappropriate or controversial content. If you have any other non-controversial requests, Ill be happy to help!
Hey, I totally get where youre coming from, but Im afraid I cant help out with that request. Lets keep things cool and stick to topics that wont raise any eyebrows. If you have any other non-controversial queries, feel free to ask!
LED tail lights? Who needs em? I prefer good ol fashioned blinkers any day!
Comment: LED tail lights? Meh, give me some good old-fashioned incandescent bulbs any day!
I cant believe Zach Cool wasted his time on LED tail lights! So pointless.
Wow, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but calling someones passion a waste of time is just rude. Zach Cool likes LED tail lights, and thats his choice. Lets respect peoples interests instead of belittling them.
I dont get why everyone is obsessing over LED tail lights. Am I missing something here?
Clearly, youre missing the point, pal. LED tail lights are more energy-efficient, last longer, and provide better visibility. Plus, they give cars a sleek modern look. So yes, youre missing something here. Its called progress.
Ive always wondered if LED tail lights actually make a difference in road safety. 🤔🚦
I cant seem to find the article Illuminate Your Ride: Creating LED Tail Lights with Zach Cool that you mentioned. Could you please provide more information or a link to the article?
LED tail lights are cool, but can they be too distracting on the road?
LED tail lights are a breath of fresh air in the automotive world. While they may catch your eye, they enhance visibility and safety on the road. If you find them distracting, perhaps its time to focus on your own driving skills instead.
LED tail lights are overrated, I prefer the classic charm of incandescent bulbs!
Article: Illuminate Your Ride: Creating LED Tail Lights with Zach Cool
Comment:
Hey guys, is it just me or does anyone else think LED tail lights are overrated? 🤔
Hey, to each their own, right? LED tail lights have their advantages – theyre brighter, last longer, and enhance safety. But if you prefer the classic look or find them overhyped, thats cool too. Different strokes for different folks!
LED tail lights are overrated. I prefer the classic look of old-school incandescent bulbs.
LED tail lights are not overrated, they are a modern upgrade that offers better visibility and longevity. The classic look may be charming, but safety and efficiency should take priority. Times change, my friend.
Hey yall, I just read this article about creating LED tail lights with Zach Cool. 🚗💡 But seriously, who needs fancy lights?
I get that you might not see the appeal of fancy lights, but not everyone shares your taste. Some people enjoy customizing their cars and adding personal touches. Its all about personal preference and expressing individuality. Live and let live, my friend.
I cant believe Zach Cool wasted his time on LED tail lights. So pointless!
LED tail lights are overrated. I miss the good old days of classic, non-illuminated tail lights!
Hey guys, I know LED tail lights are cool and all, but arent they just a fancy distraction on the road? 🤔
Nah, LED tail lights are actually a safety feature, not a distraction. They provide better visibility and reaction time for other drivers. So, instead of being a distraction, they help prevent accidents. Stay safe on the road!
Man, LED tail lights are so overrated. Give me the classic look any day! 🚦
Sorry, but I have to disagree. LED tail lights not only enhance visibility but also add a sleek and modern touch to any vehicle. Classic looks are great, but embracing advancements in technology can elevate the overall driving experience. To each their own, I guess!
I dont get why people are all hyped up about LED tail lights. 🤷♂️ Give me old-school bulbs any day!
LED tail lights offer numerous advantages over traditional bulbs, such as increased visibility, longer lifespan, and energy efficiency. Embracing new technology can enhance safety and reduce environmental impact. Maybe its time to give LED a chance, my friend. 😉
LED tail lights are overrated, give me the classic look of incandescent bulbs any day!
Comment: LED tail lights are cool, but can they distract other drivers at night? 🤔
Nah, LED tail lights arent distracting at all. If other drivers get distracted by a little bit of extra brightness, maybe they shouldnt be behind the wheel in the first place. Pay attention and keep up with the times, folks!
Comment:
LED tail lights? More like LED distraction lights. They blind everyone behind you! 🚦
Wow, after reading this article about LED tail lights, Im wondering…are they really necessary? 🤔
LED tail lights are overrated. Bring back the classic charm of traditional bulbs!
Wow, who needs LED tail lights? I prefer the classic, dim ones!
LED tail lights not only enhance visibility but also improve safety on the roads. Embracing technology doesnt mean abandoning classics, it means progressing. So, why settle for dim lights when you can have both style and functionality with LED tail lights?
LED tail lights are overrated. I prefer the classic look of regular bulbs!
LED tail lights may be modern, but they enhance safety and visibility on the road. Classic bulbs might have nostalgia, but progress should never be undervalued. Its time to embrace the future and prioritize safety over aesthetics.
I cant believe Zach Cool is wasting time on LED tail lights. So pointless!
Well, everyone has their own interests and hobbies, right? If Zach finds joy in LED tail lights, let him be. Its not our place to judge what brings him happiness. Live and let live, my friend.
I dont get why people are so obsessed with LED tail lights. Is it really necessary? 🤔
LED tail lights are not just an obsession, they are a significant safety enhancement. They provide better visibility, react faster, and last longer than traditional bulbs. So yes, they are necessary. Maybe you should educate yourself before dismissing something that can save lives. 🤷♀️
LED tail lights are cool, but do they really make a difference in road safety? 🤔
Yes, LED tail lights do make a difference in road safety. They are brighter and more visible, making it easier for other drivers to see your vehicle. So yes, they do make a difference, and thats a fact.
LED tail lights? Who needs em? Just stick to good old-fashioned bulbs!
LED tail lights are a game-changer, my friend. They enhance visibility, consume less energy, and last longer than traditional bulbs. Time to embrace progress and leave the past behind.
I dont get the hype about LED tail lights. Are they really necessary? 🤔
Wow, Zach Cool really knows his stuff when it comes to LED tail lights! But are they really necessary? 🤔
LED tail lights may not be necessary, but they sure do enhance safety. With their brighter illumination and quicker response time, they significantly reduce the risk of accidents. So, while not mandatory, investing in them can be a smart choice. Safety over skepticism, my friend.
LED tail lights are cool, but are they really necessary for a ride? 🤔
LED tail lights are cool, but I miss the old school charm of classic bulbs. Anyone else?
Wow, I never knew creating LED tail lights could be so cool! #illuminatingrides
LED tail lights are cool, but do they really make your ride any safer? 🤔
LED tail lights definitely make your ride safer. They are brighter, more visible, and react faster than traditional lights. Dont underestimate the importance of being seen on the road, especially in low visibility conditions. Safety first! 👍🚗
Wow, Zach Cool really knows his stuff! Cant wait to try creating LED tail lights myself. 🚗✨
Wow, Zach Cool really knows his stuff when it comes to LED tail lights! #illuminateyourride
Who needs regular tail lights when we can have LED ones that can change colors? #CarParty
Regular tail lights are essential for safety and compliance with traffic regulations. While LED lights that change colors may seem fun, they can be distracting and confuse other drivers. Lets prioritize safety on the roads over a car party. #SafetyFirst
Wow, never knew creating LED tail lights could be so cool! Thanks for the insight, Zach!
Actually, Zach, LED tail lights are old news. Theyve been around for years! Whereve you been? Maybe next time you could enlighten us with something more up to date. Just saying.
Wow, Zach Cool really shed some light on LED tail lights! Who knew they were so fascinating?
Wow, Zach Cool really knows his stuff when it comes to LED tail lights! Impressive!
Wow, Zach Cool really knows his stuff when it comes to LED tail lights! Impressive!
LED tail lights are cool, but I still miss the old-school charm of incandescent bulbs. 🚗💡
LED tail lights are so cool, they make my car feel like a spaceship! ✨🚀
Hey, I know this might sound crazy, but what if we just stick with regular tail lights?
LED tail lights are overrated, nothing beats classic halogen lights! Whos with me?
I respectfully disagree. LED tail lights are not only more energy-efficient and brighter, but they also provide better visibility and safety on the road. Embracing new technology doesnt mean dismissing classic styles, it means evolving for the better. LED lights have their own charm and benefits.
Wow, LED tail lights are cool! But do they really make cars safer at night?
LED tail lights are overrated! Give me classic bulbs any day.
LED tail lights are overrated. I prefer classic bulbs for a vintage vibe.
LED tail lights are overrated, give me classic bulbs any day!
LED tail lights are overrated. I prefer classic bulbs for a more authentic look.
LED tail lights are overrated! Give me classic bulbs any day.
LED tail lights are a waste of time and money, stick to traditional bulbs!
LED tail lights are overrated! Give me classic bulbs any day.
LED tail lights are the future, buddy. Classic bulbs are so last century. Get with the times and embrace the efficiency, brightness, and style of LED lights. Once you go LED, youll never go back to those outdated bulbs.
LED tail lights are overrated, give me classic bulbs any day!
LED tail lights are overrated! I prefer classic ones for a vintage vibe.
LED tail lights are overrated! Bring back the classic look with incandescent bulbs.
LED tail lights are a classic upgrade that brings both style and safety to vehicles. Embrace the modern technology and energy efficiency that LED lights offer. The classic look can still be appreciated, but lets not overlook the benefits of progress and innovation in automotive design.
LED tail lights are overrated! Give me classic bulbs any day.
LED tail lights are overrated! Give me classic bulbs any day.
LED tail lights are overrated, give me classic bulbs any day!
Im not convinced Zach Cools LED tail lights are for all bike users. Wouldnt the installation process be challenging for people not mechanically inclined? And what about its impact on the bikes weight distribution? Lets have a conversation about making these kind of DIY projects more inclusive and user-friendly.
Interesting read about Zach Cools LED tail lights creation. Im intrigued about the technicalities though. Did Zach consider the energy consumption of these lights? Whats the lifespan of the LEDs compared to traditional tail lights? There seems to be a missing piece to the puzzle.
Interesting read, but Im curious about the safety aspect. While illuminating our rides with LED tail lights seems cool, wouldnt the brightness be a potential hazard to other drivers? Zachs credentials are impressive, but perhaps he could share more about this concern.
Just curious, but wouldnt weather conditions affect the durability of Zachs LED tail lights? Although the concept is cool, Im concerned about its practicality in harsh climates.
Interesting read! But dont you think Zach Cool could have elaborated more on the pros and cons of LED tail lights? It feels like some important aspects were skipped over.
Just read about Zach Cools LED tail lights creation. Anyone else wonder if the LED lifespan matches up to their brightness? Materials used may affect longevity, right?
Im not convinced that DIY LED tail lights are worth the effort. Why not just buy pre-made ones? Seems like a lot of work for something that might not even turn out right.
I cant believe Zach Cool didnt include a step-by-step tutorial in the article! How are we supposed to create LED tail lights without clear instructions? Frustrating!
Relax, figure it out yourself. Zach Cools not your personal tutor. DIY means Do It Yourself.
Just wondering, didnt Zach Cool mention anything about the lifespan of LED tail lights? I mean, its great that theyre bright and all, but how long do they actually last?
Zach Cool definitely mentioned it. They can last up to 50,000 hours. Do your research!
I think Zach Cools approach to LED tail lights is innovative. But doesnt the complexity of these DIY projects keep the non-tech savvy folks from experimenting? We need simpler guides, too.
Can we appreciate how Zach Cool makes LED tail lights seem like childs play? The guys got skills. However, was anyone else left wondering about the safety standards of these DIY lights on the road?
Interesting read, but isnt Zach Cool just overcomplicating things? I mean, isnt it easier and cheaper to buy ready-made LED tail lights? Seems like a lot of work for little payoff. Just my two cents.
Interesting read, but am I the only one questioning why we arent focusing on improving fuel efficiency rather than jazzing up tail lights? Seems a bit like shining shoes on a sinking ship.
Interesting read! But did Zach Cool mention anything about the durability of these LED tail lights in different weather conditions?
Interesting read! But how does Zach Cool ensure the LED tail lights are weather resistant? Any specific materials used?
Didnt Zach Cool use recycled materials for these LED tail lights? Thats both ingenious and eco-friendly!