how to install wheel lights on drum brakes

How to Install Wheel Lights on Drum Brakes

Adding wheel lights to your vehicle can enhance its appearance and provide a unique look, especially during nighttime driving. However, installing wheel lights on drum brakes requires careful consideration to ensure safety and functionality. Follow this detailed guide to install wheel lights on drum brake systems effectively.

Materials Needed

1. Wheel lights kit (LED lights) 2. Zip ties or adhesive mounts 3. Wire strippers 4. Electrical tape 5. A power source (usually the car battery) 6. A multi-meter (optional, for testing) 7. Basic hand tools (like a wrench and screwdriver)

Step 1 Choose the Right Wheel Lights

Select LED wheel lights that are compatible with your vehicle type and drum brake system. Ensure the lights are designed for wheel use and are weather-resistant for durability.

Step 2 Prepare Your Vehicle

Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. For added safety, loosen the lug nuts on the wheels where you intend to install the lights, but don’t remove them yet.

Step 3 Lift the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the vehicle off the ground. Make sure to secure it with jack stands for safety. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the drum brakes.

Step 4 Mounting the Wheel Lights

Identify the best location for the lights on the inner side of the wheel rim. Use zip ties or adhesive mounts to secure the LED lights in place. Ensure they are positioned for maximum visibility when the wheel is spinning but away from any moving parts to avoid damage.

Step 5 Wiring the Lights

Run the wires from the lights to the power source. If your kit includes wiring harnesses, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connections. If not, strip the ends of the wires and use electrical tape to secure them to the power source cables. It’s essential to connect positive to positive and negative to negative to avoid short circuits.

For those unfamiliar with wiring, using a multi-meter to test connections can help ensure that everything is wired correctly before powering on.

Step 6 Reassemble the Wheel

Once all connections are secured and tested, carefully reattach the wheel, tightening the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.

Step 7 Test the Wheel Lights

Before taking your vehicle out, complete a final test of the wheel lights. Check that all components are functioning correctly, and ensure the installation does not interfere with the brake system.

By following these steps, you can successfully install wheel lights on drum brakes, adding a stylish touch to your vehicle while ensuring safety and functionality. Enjoy your new eye-catching addition!