SC430 - 2nd Gen (2001-2010)

LED Conversion Project

Old 01-17-13, 04:08 PM
  #46  
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Nudge!

like Steve said it's quite easy. The first time using the DIY's posted here I had a little diificulty getting to the bolts on each upper side edge because I didn't understand the orientation. A 3" socket wrench extender helps. To work on the fogs, you don't really have to totally remove the bumper or disconnect the headlight washers. All you need to do is to pull it forward enough (move the top out) to be able to see inside the H3 socket and manipulate the spring. Or for Steve's mod, simply remove the fogs, bracket and all.

Good luck

Originally Posted by mandyfig
Hi Steve,

I am closer to taking it on...a bit more nudge.

Thanks.

Mandy
Old 01-17-13, 06:06 PM
  #47  
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SOLD! Will tackle it soon.
Old 01-17-13, 07:05 PM
  #48  
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Hey Mandy, wanted to say thanks for all your tips and help. I changed out one parking light to 5SMD LED so it looks like yours now. I still need to do the other side so my car looks a little goofy right now but i will get to it. Went through the fender liner like you said. Struggled to remove one of the screws cos I only had a long screw driver and took a while to figure out how to remove the plastic retainer pins but I eventually did it. I need a short stubby screw driver for the other side and I will have the right tools when I get to it next. Looks 1000x better than the old yellow 168 bulb.

Now my stock HID low beams don't look white enough ....
Old 01-17-13, 08:02 PM
  #49  
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OBP - get the 6000k bulbs for the HID's. - look great.
Old 01-18-13, 04:01 AM
  #50  
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Originally Posted by SlvBullet
OBP - get the 6000k bulbs for the HID's. - look great.
Yes, I will remember that when it comes time to change the HIDs. Any brand recommended ? When I changed my 06 RL HIDs, I went with Phillips but I hear that brand is subject to lots of fakes online...
Old 01-18-13, 05:12 AM
  #51  
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Originally Posted by OBP

Now my stock HID low beams don't look white enough ....
Got that right. Have you changed your DRL's?

I have to do my Fogs sometime.
Old 01-18-13, 05:15 AM
  #52  
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The DRL's were easy on the Pass side since I did not need to remove the air box, plenty of space with the decoder. The DR side, the wife had to do it for me. Tight little spot. I was able to take it out but putting it back with the decoder...tight in there and there's the rubbery seal crap that's in the way. I had to cut through those.
Old 01-18-13, 05:16 AM
  #53  
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However the white DRL's are priceless.
Old 01-18-13, 11:54 AM
  #54  
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Originally Posted by mandyfig
SOLD! Will tackle it soon.
Hi Mandy

SlvBullet is right, you don't have to take it off completely to change the bulbs, but I found it easier to take it off and lay it face down on a blanket. If you do, disconnect the headlamp washers from the reservoir and drain it into a bucket then you can filter the water and put it back.
When you get to the clips where the bumper meets the fender dont try to force it off with a screwdriver as I did and chip the paint (as I did!!!).

Cheers
Steve

Last edited by WIL44; 01-20-13 at 09:44 AM.
Old 01-19-13, 07:42 AM
  #55  
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Hi Steve,

Am on it now.

Thanks.

Mandy
Old 01-19-13, 10:46 AM
  #56  
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Thanks for the write up Mandy. I too also live in Atlanta. I just purchased my SC 430 last month and have ordered a body kit that should arrive in a week or two. I was thinking of replacing the LED lights when I have the body kit installed. I've searched the board and see there are diff options for lights to purchase. I'm really digging your setup and would like to know if you can provide link to where you purchased your lights, fog included. Thanks in advance. Also maybe we can schedule a meet up one day with the Atlanta folks.
Old 01-19-13, 11:07 AM
  #57  
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I bought mine from iJDMtoy who is a supporting vendor here. Got to the classifieds to get the link. Thura gave me the exact bulb replacements. I will send you his PM to me, it will have all the links to the exact bulbs. When I went to their website, there were a tons of options. So his link helped.

You will also find a ton of these on fleabay. They are much cheaper but do not know about the longevity-quality of them.

All up to you.
Old 01-19-13, 05:31 PM
  #58  
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Nice, really nice.
Old 01-20-13, 01:10 PM
  #59  
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My 09 had LED lights on the rear license plate; I'm not sure if the previous owner did it or if it was OEM.
Old 01-21-13, 11:06 AM
  #60  
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Mandy,

How effective are the high beams with the LEDs?
They look awesome, and I'm considering doing the same, but I'm concerned about their strength.

Would you consider posting some night pics?
I'd include mine for comparison, but I've got an HID out that I should receive this week.

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