New LEDs for gauges and indicators

[weedahoe]

I want to thank Addidas for his awesome picture on how to get the turn signal to work

Before and after pics as well as where I made my connections (soldered and heat shrink)

Picked up a pair of the diodes at Radio Shack for less than $2

[Juan1]

Just wanted to add another pic that compares the 4 LED-90 degree light to a stock bulb.  This shot was taken with a LED in the blinker indicator spot, and a standard bulb in the neutral spot.  Note that I used my flash because..I forgot to turn it off.  That said, the picture provides an accurate representation of how dim the standard bulb looks during the day.  This camera shot exaggerates the difference in brightness slightly, but not by much.  Hope this helps.

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[PatheticPuma]

I'm confused...why are the diodes necessary?

[Janx101]

Mmm ... I thought diodes for the actual LED indicators but the idiot light were ok without.... You mean I gotta diode the idiots lights too?? 

[jdoorn14]

No, the diode is only necessary for the turn signal because there's no polarized LED that fits the socket, and because of the method Suzuki used to wire the turn signals such that either left or right cause the indicator to flash.

[PatheticPuma]

No, the diode is only necessary for the turn signal because there's no polarized LED that fits the socket, and because of the method Suzuki used to wire the turn signals such that either left or right cause the indicator to flash.

OK so since my headlight has led turn signals integrated (with resistors) and I put an led indicator in my dash, I will need to pick up some diodes?

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

[jdoorn14]

I put an led indicator in my dash, I will need to pick up some diodes?

Upon further recollection (and a quick search through some old bookmarked threads), it depends on what year your GS is...speaking from a US-only POV.

If between 1989-2002, you should be able to get a polarized LED in your socket size (T10). If your replacement LED for the turn signal is polarized, you have nothing more to do. If you use a non-polarized LED, you will still need the diodes.

If 2004+, you cannot get a polarized LED in your socket size (T5)--at least at last check through superbrightleds. Therefore, 2004+ likely will all need the diodes, unless you've managed to find a polarized T5 LED and/or custom fit a T10.

[jacob92icu]

LED dash lights are where its at!! Another person is here to thanks Adidas guy as well!

[Juan1]

For the record, I may be putting some of the material from an old header blanket between the high-beam LED and the lens.  That's the one LED that may be used for extended periods at night, and it is bright enough to reduce night vision.

Note: In my research I learned LEDs run much cooler than regular bulbs due to a decrease in IR radiation, but they still produce heat, hence the choice of a heat tolerant material.