New Mod!! Never seen anyone do this before...

Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 12:15 AM

More pictures Post #92 Page 4

I was sitting in my sisters V-Dub the other day and noticed she had LEDs that would shine down and light up the shift knob. So I started thinking how I could do that in my STi. So after much thought I decided to go for it today and I think it turned out good.

Before you say anything, if its negative keep it to yourself, this is my car and I will do what I want with it. However, constructive criticism is always welcome, let me know what you would have done instead.

Oh and yes, my HVAC is out right now, its getting color changed to match the cluster right now!!!

Here you go!!!

Closed:

Open: (The velcro is just on there for a temporary fix, I am going to put a thumb wheel dimming switch on these bad boys. Right now it just blocks all the light when the flap is closed) Two 3mm Red LED's

On: (you can barely see it from the outside of the car too

)

I had a guy PM about how I chose my resistor value so here is the reply to him.

Okay you are tapping into a 12V supply, and your LED's should have a rated voltage and amperage. For instance mine were 2.1V and for bright operation the MAX current was 21mA which is 0.021A. Voltage = current*resistance. So I need to "suck up" the "extra" voltage. So 12V - 2LEDS * 2.1V = 7.8V, Therefore 7.8V = current (0.021A) *resistance (your resistor value). Then solve for R by dividing 7.8/0.021 = 371.42 Ohms. Then you go to THIS and type in your value with 5% checked, to find the closest resistance value which in my case was 390 Ohms. You can put the resistor anywhere in the circuit, in front, in the middle in the back.... Also, you always wanna go with a higher resistor value even though 360 Ohm is closer it will increase the current in the circuit possibly causing your LED to burn itself up. Just use the 1/4 Watt rated ones from radio shack or ordered from offline. Anything more is over kill.

Hope this helps.

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Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 12:15 AM

Backseat view: I love how it turned out!!! I really like it. If you don't sorry.

Let me know what you think!!!!!
Thanks,
Todd

PS Check out ImpreziveWRX's version of this in post # 74 as well!! Same concept, different method!!

Newer Picture with the LED's more recessed and HVAC back in!

FigNuts · 11-02-2008, 12:20 AM

I think that looks great! Excellent idea!

Dunkin · 11-02-2008, 12:22 AM

Nice idea. Every time I hop in a Bimmer at night I am reminded of this.

jigga · 11-02-2008, 12:22 AM

hmm.. I like it also

What about some LED lighting for the areas where the feet reside? Also might be an idea to have one inside where the door release is on the inside... Ok ok... I've been spending too much time in an S-Class

Silverdc · 11-02-2008, 12:25 AM

looks awsome! well done

funky monk · 11-02-2008, 12:25 AM

that looks great, I really like the idea.

Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 12:26 AM

Thanks guys!! Yeah, it was really simple to do, start to stop took me about an hour!! and in parts 5.99 for a 10 pack of LED's and resistors, done deal!

jigga · 11-02-2008, 12:28 AM

Do you think you could do a writeup as to how it is done?

wht07sti22 · 11-02-2008, 12:29 AM

Plese Pm A General Instruction On This And The Lights You Used I Really Like This Looks Badass

aferrari88 · 11-02-2008, 12:30 AM

wow Ive always wanted to do something like this! looks better than I couldve imagined. Nice work, are you going to do a 'how to' for it? I'd like to know how you did it.

dUbz · 11-02-2008, 12:32 AM

looks sick

Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 12:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jigga

Do you think you could do a writeup as to how it is done?

Yeah of course! I can whip one up!! I didn't take pictures as I went along, but I have to take it apart this week when I get the right connectors. Its just kinda ghetto taped into the Auto Dimming Mirror wires right now. So when I get those I will get some pictures for you guys and get a write up going! So probably mid week.

Quote:

Originally Posted by wht07sti22

Plese Pm A General Instruction On This And The Lights You Used I Really Like This Looks Badass

Ill just do the write up on here man, I used 3mm Clear Red LED's and one 470 Ohm resistor, I bought a pack that came with 10 LED's and 30 resistors in it 10-1000 Ohm 10-470 Ohm and 10-270 Ohm from a local electrical store I can snap a picture of the package if you want?

Quote:

Originally Posted by aferrari88

wow Ive always wanted to do something like this! looks better than I couldve imagined. Nice work, are you going to do a 'how to' for it? I'd like to know how you did it.

Yeah I didn't know if people would like it! So I will get it going sometime this week! I might be able to start the verbal tomorrow. Thanks again!!!

96SubyImpreza · 11-02-2008, 12:39 AM

I really like that. Its a must do! I know nothing about electronics and LED's but this is to change!

wht07sti22 · 11-02-2008, 12:40 AM

Thank You Look Forward To It

96SubyImpreza · 11-02-2008, 12:40 AM

Is that power source wired in through your headlamp?
nvm read on.

Miercoles Cansado · 11-02-2008, 12:42 AM

That's very clever.

Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 12:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 96SubyImpreza

I really like that. Its a must do! I know nothing about electronics and LED's but this is to change!

Yeah LED circuits like this are pretty basic so I don't think you will have too much trouble with it especially if you use the same LED's and resistor as I did., However, I did have to solder 4 connections, so it will give you a chance to practice with that.

bcWRX-02 · 11-02-2008, 12:49 AM

I dig it. It's like a holy light shining down on your shifter saying "thou shalt shift late and drive hard". I think red LED's for the door handles and maybe illuminated pedals as said above would really add to it. Definitely a unique mod, well done!

axelthrasher · 11-02-2008, 12:52 AM

Definately looks pretty good. I would rather just delete that damned thing, but there isn't a good way to make it look decent without it.

lando · 11-02-2008, 01:11 AM

Looks nice, but what is that massive door used to cover them????? They dont need the lid?

Imprezd 1 · 11-02-2008, 01:47 AM

Nice job, good idea

Admission_Regret · 11-02-2008, 01:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lando

Looks nice, but what is that massive door used to cover them????? They dont need the lid?

the door is actually stock... its like a sunvisor over the rear view mirror. Like axel says you cant really make it look good just getting rid of it.

aigochamaloh · 11-02-2008, 01:15 AM

It does look nice, I think they're called map lights in other cars. I first saw them in some Chrysler car, they were amber lights.

BoostinIX · 11-02-2008, 02:35 AM

Noooo, map lights are just to the rear of those :P It's the same style of lighting the newer Civics have, the SI's having red. I like it! WRITE UP!!! :P

11-02-2008, 12:15 AM	#1
Admission_Regret Scooby Specialist Member#: 131246 Join Date: Nov 2006 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Portland, OR Vehicle: 2004 STi Snow White eighteen x ten + thirty	New Mod!! Never seen anyone do this before... More pictures Post #92 Page 4 I was sitting in my sisters V-Dub the other day and noticed she had LEDs that would shine down and light up the shift knob. So I started thinking how I could do that in my STi. So after much thought I decided to go for it today and I think it turned out good. Before you say anything, if its negative keep it to yourself, this is my car and I will do what I want with it. However, constructive criticism is always welcome, let me know what you would have done instead. Oh and yes, my HVAC is out right now, its getting color changed to match the cluster right now!!! Here you go!!! Closed: Open: (The velcro is just on there for a temporary fix, I am going to put a thumb wheel dimming switch on these bad boys. Right now it just blocks all the light when the flap is closed) Two 3mm Red LED's On: (you can barely see it from the outside of the car too ) I had a guy PM about how I chose my resistor value so here is the reply to him. Okay you are tapping into a 12V supply, and your LED's should have a rated voltage and amperage. For instance mine were 2.1V and for bright operation the MAX current was 21mA which is 0.021A. Voltage = currentresistance. So I need to "suck up" the "extra" voltage. So 12V - 2LEDS 2.1V = 7.8V, Therefore 7.8V = current (0.021A) resistance (your resistor value). Then solve for R by dividing 7.8/0.021 = 371.42 Ohms. Then you go to THIS and type in your value with 5% checked, to find the closest resistance value which in my case was 390 Ohms. You can put the resistor anywhere in the circuit, in front, in the middle in the back.... Also, you always wanna go with a higher resistor value even though 360 Ohm is closer it will increase the current in the circuit possibly causing your LED to burn itself up. Just use the 1/4 Watt rated ones from radio shack or ordered from offline. Anything more is over kill. Hope this helps. Registered users of the site do not see these ads. Last edited by Admission_Regret; 12-31-2008 at 06:26 PM.

11-02-2008, 12:15 AM	#2
Admission_Regret Scooby Specialist Member#: 131246 Join Date: Nov 2006 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Portland, OR Vehicle: 2004 STi Snow White eighteen x ten + thirty	Backseat view: I love how it turned out!!! I really like it. If you don't sorry. Let me know what you think!!!!! Thanks, Todd PS Check out ImpreziveWRX's version of this in post # 74 as well!! Same concept, different method!! Newer Picture with the LED's more recessed and HVAC back in! Last edited by Admission_Regret; 11-11-2008 at 01:28 PM.

11-02-2008, 12:40 AM	#16
96SubyImpreza Scooby Specialist Member#: 157692 Join Date: Aug 2007 Chapter/Region: NESIC Location: Albany, NY Vehicle: 2004 Widebody WRX Ferrari Corsa Red	Is that power source wired in through your headlamp? nvm read on. Last edited by 96SubyImpreza; 11-02-2008 at 12:41 AM. Reason: oops

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11-02-2008, 12:20 AM	#3
FigNuts Scooby Specialist Member#: 125413 Join Date: Sep 2006 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Tualatin, OR	I think that looks great! Excellent idea!

11-02-2008, 12:22 AM	#4
Dunkin Scooby Specialist Member#: 113496 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Juanita, WA Vehicle: ... (V) (;,,;) (V)	Nice idea. Every time I hop in a Bimmer at night I am reminded of this.

11-02-2008, 12:22 AM	#5
jigga Scooby Guru Member#: 9960 Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: in bed... Vehicle: 2002 Impreza WRX WRBlue Perl	hmm.. I like it also What about some LED lighting for the areas where the feet reside? Also might be an idea to have one inside where the door release is on the inside... Ok ok... I've been spending too much time in an S-Class

11-02-2008, 12:25 AM	#6
Silverdc Scooby Specialist Member#: 132230 Join Date: Nov 2006 Chapter/Region: International Location: Surrounded by stupid Vehicle: 03 Sedona Variety 10.85 @ 129mph	looks awsome! well done

11-02-2008, 12:25 AM	#7
funky monk Scooby Specialist Member#: 143094 Join Date: Mar 2007 Chapter/Region: SCIC Vehicle: '07 Impreza 2.5i Crystal Grey Metallic	that looks great, I really like the idea.

11-02-2008, 12:26 AM	#8
Admission_Regret Scooby Specialist Member#: 131246 Join Date: Nov 2006 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Portland, OR Vehicle: 2004 STi Snow White eighteen x ten + thirty	Thanks guys!! Yeah, it was really simple to do, start to stop took me about an hour!! and in parts 5.99 for a 10 pack of LED's and resistors, done deal!

11-02-2008, 12:28 AM	#9
jigga Scooby Guru Member#: 9960 Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: in bed... Vehicle: 2002 Impreza WRX WRBlue Perl	Do you think you could do a writeup as to how it is done?

11-02-2008, 12:29 AM	#10
wht07sti22 Scooby Newbie Member#: 169529 Join Date: Jan 2008 Chapter/Region: SCIC Location: south oc,cali Vehicle: 07 sti satin white pearl	Plese Pm A General Instruction On This And The Lights You Used I Really Like This Looks Badass

11-02-2008, 12:30 AM	#11
aferrari88 Scooby Specialist Member#: 174581 Join Date: Mar 2008 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: NOVA, VA Vehicle: 2010 Ferrari 458 Red	wow Ive always wanted to do something like this! looks better than I couldve imagined. Nice work, are you going to do a 'how to' for it? I'd like to know how you did it.

11-02-2008, 12:32 AM	#12
dUbz Scooby Newbie Member#: 178290 Join Date: Apr 2008 Chapter/Region: Tri-State Location: NY Vehicle: 05 STi OBP	looks sick

11-02-2008, 12:39 AM	#14
96SubyImpreza Scooby Specialist Member#: 157692 Join Date: Aug 2007 Chapter/Region: NESIC Location: Albany, NY Vehicle: 2004 Widebody WRX Ferrari Corsa Red	I really like that. Its a must do! I know nothing about electronics and LED's but this is to change!

11-02-2008, 12:42 AM	#17
Miercoles Cansado Scooby Specialist Member#: 166820 Join Date: Dec 2007 Chapter/Region: International Location: say halo to Vehicle: my ignore list	That's very clever.

11-02-2008, 12:49 AM	#19
bcWRX-02 Scooby Specialist Member#: 181780 Join Date: Jun 2008 Chapter/Region: VIC Location: B.C. Canada Vehicle: 2002 WRX Sedan PSM '01 CBR 600 F4i	I dig it. It's like a holy light shining down on your shifter saying "thou shalt shift late and drive hard". I think red LED's for the door handles and maybe illuminated pedals as said above would really add to it. Definitely a unique mod, well done!

11-02-2008, 12:52 AM	#20
axelthrasher Scooby Specialist Member#: 144779 Join Date: Mar 2007 Chapter/Region: MWSOC Location: In the land up over Vehicle: 200X ZOMG a car 100% crabon fibre girlfrendorz	Definately looks pretty good. I would rather just delete that damned thing, but there isn't a good way to make it look decent without it.

11-02-2008, 01:11 AM	#21
lando Scooby Specialist Member#: 149637 Join Date: May 2007 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: HR. Gangsta Vehicle: 2010 STI SE WRB	Looks nice, but what is that massive door used to cover them????? They dont need the lid?

11-02-2008, 01:47 AM	#22
Imprezd 1 Scooby Specialist Member#: 119942 Join Date: Jul 2006 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: Columbia Vehicle: 2006 WRX	Nice job, good idea

11-02-2008, 01:15 AM	#24
aigochamaloh Scooby Newbie Member#: 188167 Join Date: Aug 2008 Vehicle: 2009 Subaru Legacy 1987 Toyota MR2	It does look nice, I think they're called map lights in other cars. I first saw them in some Chrysler car, they were amber lights.

11-02-2008, 02:35 AM	#25
BoostinIX Scooby Specialist Member#: 136701 Join Date: Jan 2007 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: Laurel, MD Vehicle: 2005 WRBBRZ/S14 240 04WRX/05STi- Goooone	Noooo, map lights are just to the rear of those :P It's the same style of lighting the newer Civics have, the SI's having red. I like it! WRITE UP!!! :P