LED bulb swap

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rolesyboy
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LED bulb swap

Post by rolesyboy »

I've got some LED type bulbs to upgrade the lights on my Mk1.
Would anybody on here happen to know if the Lucas FL5 (35020) flasher can will get upset/blow up if I fit LED bulbs to my indicators?
I haven't got a clue but trying to avoid an unnecessary meltdown.
Thanks
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timmy201
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by timmy201 »

You’ll probably need an appropriate flasher unit to match the LED bulbs

These guys should have everything you need
https://www.classiccarleds.co.uk/produc ... 160f&_ss=r

I have a “non-load” flasher unit on mine as I’ve got LED front and regular rear indicator bulbs
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by twc641 »

LED Flasher Module - LED Bulb Blinking Installing an LED flasher module specifically designed for LED bulbs. This is the easiest method for fixing hyperflashing. These modules are economically priced and are usually simple to install. In most cases, these flasher units are little circular or square boxes with metal prongs sticking out one side that simply plug into where your stock flasher went. Our LED flashers function with both LED and incandescent bulbs, so even if you have LED turn signals in the back and incandescent bulbs still in the front, you can use our LED flasher modules with no problems. Before you order, compare the pin diagram of the stock flasher with the pin diagram of our flashers on our website.

This was at superbrightleds.com
this should answer your question
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by mk1 »

The original flasher unit certainly won't "blow up". It is however highly unlikely that it will flash correctly either. The LED lamps don't craw enough current to make the unit work correctly. The easiest solution, as has already been said, is to use an LED flasher unit, but you can also put resistors in line with the LED indicator lamps to up the current draw, this will "trick" the flasher unit into working correctly.

I know which option I'd go for :)
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by 100BUR »

Classic Car LED'S gets my vote.

https://www.classiccarleds.co.uk/

Recently changed all dash bulbs indicators,side brake lights and flasher unit
Duncan at Classic Car LED'S provides all the info you need and his customers service is second to none.
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by Tornado99 »

Yes, you will need a flasher for LED lights. Cheap and easy o source from many places. Direct plug in sawp. There may be an issue with some types that don't play well with positive earth setup cars if that is your situation. Some types are polarity insensitive.

Be aware it is best to fit the correct LED colour to match the lamp lens colour...so red LED for brake/tail lamps, amber for turns etc.
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by MiNiKiN »

As stated above you need a flasher compatible with LED's lower current.
I took one of these fancy flashers, opened an old aluminium round housing flasher and fit the LED one into it, to keep the original look of the flasher relais. :geek:
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by rolesyboy »

Thanks a lot. Can you send me a link to one of these compatible flashers please . Cheers
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by gazza82 »

Don't change the ignition warning light bulb .. or if you do you'll need a resistor on it.

It uses the bulbs natural resistance to allow the dynamo/alternator to charge.
The forerunner of the Mini .. the A35 .. lots of similarities except rear wheel drive. My engine contains a lot of Mini parts now and the bodyshell some Metro brake parts!
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by timmy201 »

rolesyboy wrote: Wed Mar 01, 2023 12:40 pm Thanks a lot. Can you send me a link to one of these compatible flashers please . Cheers
There’s a couple of links above for Classic Car LEDS

Eg
https://www.classiccarleds.co.uk/produc ... 160f&_ss=r
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by Tornado99 »

rolesyboy wrote: Wed Mar 01, 2023 12:40 pm Thanks a lot. Can you send me a link to one of these compatible flashers please . Cheers
I've used these 2-pin types with good results from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.ca/Electronic-Flashe ... B01I4OX514
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by rolesyboy »

Unfortunately it needs to be a 3 terminal job.
Thanks anyway
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Re: LED bulb swap

Post by MiNiKiN »

rolesyboy wrote: Thu Mar 02, 2023 10:12 am Unfortunately it needs to be a 3 terminal job.
Thanks anyway
This' the 3 terminal version, which I used:
https://www.classiccarleds.co.uk/produc ... s=e&_v=1.0
Yes I am a nerd: I am researching the Austrian Mini-racing scene of the 60s and 70s :ugeek:
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