The Ford Barn

James G. · 08-28-2020, 03:28 PM

I do a bit of night time driving when on solo touring. For safety I want to convert my original incondecent to LED "bulbs". The word is they are a significant improvement thus safer on the road. What all is involved for this change. I do not want to make modifications to any original features/parts thus, hopefully just a plug in will get the job done. Even so, will the LED system retain the focusing ability to optimize the road illumination for night time driving?
Pix please would be a great help if more than bulb replacement is required. Also, which and where is the best place for the needed quality parts.
Many thanks.

Kurt in NJ · 08-28-2020, 03:40 PM

Due to design constraints it will be impossible to get proper focus with existing led systems in original reflector---- you will get a lot of bright light all around like a flood light, but you want a beam projected down the road like a spot light to see in the distance

McMimmcs · 08-28-2020, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kurt in NJ

Due to design constraints it will be impossible to get proper focus with existing led systems in original reflector---- you will get a lot of bright light all around like a flood light, but you want a beam projected down the road like a spot light to see in the distance

I agree! I converted and my garage is brighter but down the road is no better and possibly worse than before conversion.

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 08-28-2020, 04:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kurt in NJ

Due to design constraints it will be impossible to get proper focus with existing led systems in original reflector---- you will get a lot of bright light all around like a flood light, but you want a beam projected down the road like a spot light to see in the distance

Kurt, you are talking two different things. I can tell you from first-hand experience that there is no need to focus. With one incandescent filament, there is a need to position (focus) the single filament wire in the parabolic shape of the reflector to project the light beam as far as possible. In an LED bulb, there are multiple light sources emitting light at a much higher intensity than the incandescent bulb. Therefore you get more lumen output with the LED over the incandescent bulb, you get a further beam travel with the LED bulb, and you have less electrical draw with the LED.

I will tell you straight-up that I had 50-50 candlepower bulbs mounted in Bratton's reflectors, and focused just like in the Service Bulletins. A year or so ago I switched over to the good quality LED direct replacement bulbs, and I have more light in front of the vehicle, I can see further down the road, and my generator has no trouble keeping up. I did re-aim my headlights downward just a tad, not because I was blinding people, but because I wanted a heavier concentration of light to see 25-50 foot in front of the bumper. And, ....to your point, Yes I have lost my ability to focus the LED bulb however I have no reason to want to focus this bulb. Its kinda like saying if you put one of those toolboxes in front of the radiator, you won't be able to hand crank start the engine. My attitude is ... 'So!' simply because I don't need to hand crank my Model-A.

.
.

Dean Lemoine · 08-28-2020, 05:16 PM

I recently installed Logolites LED “bulbs” in new reproduction headlights. Honestly I haven’t driven the car at night to see if they need adjusting or how bright they are. But, the low beams blink constantly while the high beam is fine. I was thinking it may be a wiring issue so I swapped the position of the LED on both lights. The low beam still blinks and the bright continues to be fine.
I e-mailed Logo today, no response yet.

Tom Endy · 08-28-2020, 05:59 PM

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Dean Lemoine

I recently installed Logolites LED “bulbs” in new reproduction headlights. Honestly I haven’t driven the car at night to see if they need adjusting or how bright they are. But, the low beams blink constantly while the high beam is fine. I was thinking it may be a wiring issue so I swapped the position of the LED on both lights. The low beam still blinks and the bright continues to be fine.
I e-mailed Logo today, no response yet.

I have the same problem with a set of Logo LED lights. One of the bulbs wants to blink on low beams. I switched them in the headlights and the blink went with it, so I am sure it is a defective LED.

I believe they are made in China. All of the suppliers are currently out of stock.

Tom Endy

Dean Lemoine · 08-28-2020, 06:03 PM

Tom, According to the website the LEDs are currently not in production due to Covid issues.

old31 · 08-28-2020, 06:33 PM

No one has those leds, I tried.

I switched from 50/50's to logo's and I am happy. Ya you use the focus ability but the pluses are much better as Brent mentioned.

Synchro909 · 08-28-2020, 07:27 PM

Every body looks at the conversion to LED lights from behind the steering wheel. Maybe, for the driver of that car, they are OK but by my experience, any oncoming driver is blinded by the dazzle no matter how well the driver thinks they are focused. A blinded driver coming straight at you at a closing speed of maybe 200 kph is not my idea of safety.

KGBnut · 08-28-2020, 07:54 PM

Brent, whose LED bulbs are you using?

nomadpsd · 08-28-2020, 07:55 PM

I got mine here. Same bulb as the LogoLights.

https://www.ledlight.com/led-headlig...polarized.aspx

PalAl · 08-29-2020, 08:42 AM

Some RFA's Club members are using these and really like them. My understanding is they got them at a show, not sure how it would be dealing direct with the company. I don't believe this company has any US distributors. First link is home page, second is direct to Model A LED Headlight

http://www.classicandvintagebulbs.com/

http://www.classicandvintagebulbs.com/page6.html

Jack Shaft · 08-29-2020, 08:56 AM

With a 12v conversion I used halogen H4 reflectors and installed the H4 based high/low LED bulbs...8k lumens.Nice white light,very bright.I aimed the buckets,dont blind oncoming drivers.Completely different bulbs than the 'A' ones,they have a mini fan in them..

Conaway2 · 08-29-2020, 09:05 AM

I converted headlights on my car - with stock electrical system - to the LogoLites LEDs last fall and have been very happy with them. My experience with them is much like Brent’s in post #4 - lots more light in front of the car at night, and current draw is about 2 amps.

Check Smith and Jones Model A parts in Columbia, SC - they may still have some.

Jim

GPierce · 08-29-2020, 09:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BRENT in 10-uh-C

Kurt, you are talking two different things. I can tell you from first-hand experience that there is no need to focus. With one incandescent filament, there is a need to position (focus) the single filament wire in the parabolic shape of the reflector to project the light beam as far as possible. In an LED bulb, there are multiple light sources emitting light at a much higher intensity than the incandescent bulb. Therefore you get more lumen output with the LED over the incandescent bulb, you get a further beam travel with the LED bulb, and you have less electrical draw with the LED.

I will tell you straight-up that I had 50-50 candlepower bulbs mounted in Bratton's reflectors, and focused just like in the Service Bulletins. A year or so ago I switched over to the good quality LED direct replacement bulbs, and I have more light in front of the vehicle, I can see further down the road, and my generator has no trouble keeping up. I did re-aim my headlights downward just a tad, not because I was blinding people, but because I wanted a heavier concentration of light to see 25-50 foot in front of the bumper. And, ....to your point, Yes I have lost my ability to focus the LED bulb however I have no reason to want to focus this bulb. Its kinda like saying if you put one of those toolboxes in front of the radiator, you won't be able to hand crank start the engine. My attitude is ... 'So!' simply because I don't need to hand crank my Model-A.

.
.

Thank you Brent. I have commented several times with the results you experienced. Every time the focus issue is brought up. The bottom line is I can see much better and am more comfortable driving at night.

Jack Shaft · 08-29-2020, 09:52 AM

12.57 lumens for each candle power..so 50cp is roughly 625 lumens..my LED's put out 8000 lumens..focus the beam? nah,turn the night into day

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 08-29-2020, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KGBnut

Brent, whose LED bulbs are you using?

I am not really sure. I did not get them from a normal Model-A vendor. As I recall, someone here mentioned the direct replacement type from a vendor either in England or maybe Australia. Then someone mentioned they had a US distributor, and that is who I purchased them from. Again, this has probably been a couple years ago now.

Mine do not blink that I know of Tom. The only thing mine did was they weren't very bright the first time I turned them on. I was kinda disappointed at first and stepped away. When I came back a few minutes later, they were much brighter. I don't know if the blinking will be something similar, where it corrects itself over time??

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 08-29-2020, 10:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Synchro909

Every body looks at the conversion to LED lights from behind the steering wheel. Maybe, for the driver of that car, they are OK but by my experience, any oncoming driver is blinded by the dazzle no matter how well the driver thinks they are focused. A blinded driver coming straight at you at a closing speed of maybe 200 kph is not my idea of safety.

Quite frankly, I have not experienced this. I have two sets of these in Model-T headlights where an adjustment is difficult at best since you must bend the headlight stand to adjust, and I don't see oncoming vehicles flash their lights at me. Maybe that is because we are driving on the correct side of the road!

Phil Brown · 08-29-2020, 11:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jack Shaft

With a 12v conversion I used halogen H4 reflectors and installed the H4 based high/low LED bulbs...8k lumens.Nice white light,very bright.I aimed the buckets,dont blind oncoming drivers.Completely different bulbs than the 'A' ones,they have a mini fan in them..

That's a LED light you show and the ones with a fan are typically LED's
I have a set in my modern truck and love them. the 31 truck has H4 Halogen and they work very well also.
I do wonder about how well the cooling fan works enclosed in the headlight bucket ?
One side note; a blinking of flashing LED IS an defective light

Not a wiring problem
The car looks nice got any more pics, would love to see

Kevin in NJ · 08-29-2020, 12:19 PM

What is not brought out is where the light goes. It gets glossed over.

The point to focusing the lamp is to put the light where it needs to go and not into the trees or the eyes of the oncoming cars.

A while ago someone did tests with a light measuring device and found the halogen solution did put almost the same amount of light where you need it to drive. But it also put a lot of light all over the place.

Pretty sure blinding oncoming traffic or be in the mirror of the car in front is a good thing.

So a real test would be measuring the light in multiple places. I am pretty sure there are standards for light amounts in areas in front of the car.

Do these LED lamps meet these requirements when used in the A headlamps?

We do not know and likely will never know. If you are going to ask the questions you need to ask the right questions.

As I recall the original type bulb with a good reflector and properly focused did a decent job lighting the road. A direct fit halogen did better. Both work fine with factory electrics.

30 Closed Cab PU · 08-29-2020, 01:39 PM

If you do a search on LEDs here on the Barn, there is a ton of info on them including the Logo-lights. It is somewhat confusing since some say they are great, others object to them saying they do not focus/align in the correct pattern.

I use the Logo lights primarily as daylight running lights, typically do not use them at night since I rarely drive the A at night.. I find they throw light everywhere, but then my reflectors were replaced 8-9 years ago, may be not shaped corectly, and I do not know where they came from.

The Logo-lights are not exactly cheap, but conversion to the ones with the fans that are reported to work correctly are fairly expensive.

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 08-29-2020, 02:42 PM

I am answering Kevin in NJ comments below which are in the bold letters below;

What is not brought out is where the light goes. It gets glossed over.

I dunno where the light goes Kevin, ...the light probably evaporates into space somewhere.

Seriously, is this the "right question" you think we should all be asking ourselves??

The point to focusing the lamp is to put the light where it needs to go and not into the trees or the eyes of the oncoming cars.

Again, more misinformation. 'Aiming' and 'Focusing' are two different terms, -and you are confusing the two. 'Focusing' deals with making a crisp beam whereas 'Aiming' deals with keeping the light beam(s) out of the trees or oncoming traffic's eyes. Since an incandescent bulb only has one or maybe two filaments, the light of the filament is focused using the parabolic shape of the reflector to produce the furthest beam as possible with just that thin line of illumination. Focusing an LED bulb that has many diodes emitting in different locations is not necessary to concentrate a beam of light in a direction. The intensity of the diode(s) is what determines the distance and pattern.

A while ago someone did tests with a light measuring device and found the halogen solution did put almost the same amount of light where you need it to drive. But it also put a lot of light all over the place.

This all can be argued until Jesus comes back, but the bottom line is people need to trust people who have actually used them for their feedback, -and quit listening to people who have not even tried them. To prove my point, tell us all where you purchased your bulbs, and how long you tested them on your own car. My experience counters the opinions you are giving.

Pretty sure blinding oncoming traffic or be in the mirror of the car in front is (not??) a good thing.

This poor comment has been beat to death also. I am pretty sure I can blind oncoming motorists and/or motorists in front of me with an improperly aimed Model-A headlamp, -no matter whether it has an incandescent bulb or a halogen bulb. With that being the case, not sure how relevant it is to using an LED bulb when any bulb can be made to blind oncoming traffic or illuminate trees.

So a real test would be measuring the light in multiple places. I am pretty sure there are standards for light amounts in areas in front of the car.

I doubt you would like to compare a 32cp bulb with an original reflector in a modern DOT test where specifications are set for LED and Halogen lighting. Secondly, the "real test" is when someone here reports their findings when they have installed LED bulbs in their own Model-A.

Do these LED lamps meet these requirements when used in the A headlamps? We do not know and likely will never know. If you are going to ask the questions you need to ask the right questions.

Again, this same comment has been 'over-used' and it never gains any traction. Here are the truthful facts regarding this, ...most naysayers of the LED bulbs have never even used them, however they are full of opinions based on hearsay. Most people that have reported favorable results on this site and social media are people who HAVE used them and found them to be an improvement.

As I recall the original type bulb with a good reflector and properly focused did a decent job lighting the road. A direct fit halogen did better. Both work fine with factory electrics.

This I will partially agree with. The only thing is you left out one sentence. You should have added; 'Certain direct-fit LED bulbs have been found to produce more usable light than the incandescent and the retrofitted halogen bulbs.'. The LED bulbs have also been found to work fine with factory electrics.

The bottom-line in this entire thread is people should only give feedback on subjects they have first-hand knowledge of, -and not an answer based on hearsay, opinions, or possibilities.

.
.

Pete · 08-29-2020, 10:43 PM

How come what with all of the internet and modern instant communication facilities, no one seems to know of the conversion kits available that enable you to install 7 inch standard seal beam headlamp bulbs, either 6 or 12 volt, inside a model A headlight bucket, with NO modification to the bucket and it keeps the original lens glass?
All the changeover requires is a reasonable skill with a screwdriver.
Modern cars still use these bulbs so it is very unlikely a model A is going to overdrive them.
One big advantage of all this is they are FAR cheaper than 2 modern halogen or LED bulbs.

PalAl · 08-29-2020, 11:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pete

How come what with all of the internet and modern instant communication facilities, no one seems to know of the conversion kits available that enable you to install 7 inch standard seal beam headlamp bulbs, either 6 or 12 volt, inside a model A headlight bucket, with NO modification to the bucket and it keeps the original lens glass?
All the changeover requires is a reasonable skill with a screwdriver.
Modern cars still use these bulbs so it is very unlikely a model A is going to overdrive them.
One big advantage of all this is they are FAR cheaper than 2 modern halogen or LED bulbs.

Pete, would you be so kind as to pass on more information on this 7 in behind the lens sealed beam kit for Model A Fords. Would love to see pictures of what you have done and where you purchased this product and even more help would be part numbers. Model A lighting upgrades have been a topic since the 50's. Thanks for taking the time to show us what you have

Pete · 08-29-2020, 11:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PalAl

Pete, would you be so kind as to pass on more information on this 7 in behind the lens sealed beam kit for Model A Fords. Would love to see pictures of what you have done and where you purchased this product and even more help would be part numbers. Model A lighting upgrades have been a topic since the 50's. Thanks for taking the time to show us what you have

I will see what I can find. I haven't installed any for several years. All of the model A vendor's used to sell them.

Bob Johnson · 08-30-2020, 12:39 AM

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Here are some tests I did with Halogen and LED headlights. All pictures were taken with the same camera with the same exposure. Draw your own conclusions. Note the incandescent bulb pictures were mostly black.

katy · 08-30-2020, 11:05 AM

I have these on my '31, Sealed beam adapter kit:

https://snydersantiqueauto.com/Produ...hts/head-light

Jack Shaft · 08-30-2020, 11:33 AM

A lumen is the measure of the amount of brightness of a light bulb.there is no focusing that can make up for LED bulbs being in some cases 10 times brighter than a conventional filament bulb.

There is no difference in the 'quality' of light, light emitting diode bulbs can obtained in color of light displayed.

Running a stock generator LED bulbs make sense on two levels,brighter and more effective lights at a lower draw than incandescents,that means less load..lees load makes amperage available for other circuits.

mass A man · 08-30-2020, 11:55 AM

I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

30 Closed Cab PU · 08-30-2020, 12:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mass A man

I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

Thanks for the info, my logo lights do flicker some at lower speeds. I put up with it, figured I must have poor connections somewhere, never took the time to investigate. When I bought them thought I had read they worked down to 6 volts, but not sure now.

30 Closed Cab PU · 08-30-2020, 12:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mass A man

I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

What do you use in your headlamps?

Conaway2 · 08-30-2020, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mass A man

I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

LogoLites will actually work on 6 or 12 volts. With my stock 6V electrical system, I’ve had no issue with flicker at all. Those who report this as an issue need to check electrical connections.
Jim

mass A man · 08-30-2020, 01:39 PM

My headlamps are LogoLites. All other came from a different vendor. I've rewired and ran separate ground years ago when I was refreshing this old truck. Also I see where my tail lamps flicker a bit too, before I nudged my 3rd brush down a bit from mid-point to increase output. Haven't tested it out yet. Yes, the LogoLites do in fact "work", but flicker at times. Same comments of flickering lights from local friend with a '30 roadster, fully restored.

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 08-30-2020, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob Johnson

Here are some tests I did with Halogen and LED headlights. All pictures were taken with the same camera with the same exposure. Draw your own conclusions. Note the incandescent bulb pictures were mostly black.

Bob your test with LEDs must be flawed since your LED lights are not shining up in the trees!!

ryanheacox · 08-31-2020, 07:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mass A man

My headlamps are LogoLites. All other came from a different vendor. I've rewired and ran separate ground years ago when I was refreshing this old truck. Also I see where my tail lamps flicker a bit too, before I nudged my 3rd brush down a bit from mid-point to increase output. Haven't tested it out yet. Yes, the LogoLites do in fact "work", but flicker at times. Same comments of flickering lights from local friend with a '30 roadster, fully restored.

Same here, I was thoroughly disappointed in them. I went through and gave both sockets a dedicated ground, cleaned all connections and made sure that everything was "tite and brite". Nothing got rid of the flicker and occasionally one of the high beams would completely drop out and go back to low beam. This was on a generator with Tom W's EVR.

I popped in a couple of new 32-50 incandescents and am more than happy with the performance.

GPierce · 08-31-2020, 07:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BRENT in 10-uh-C

Bob your test with LEDs must be flawed since your LED lights are not shining up in the trees!!

I love starting the day with good hearty laugh. It sets the tone for the rest of my day.

mass A man · 08-31-2020, 12:12 PM

I'm running the original generator with the Voltage regulator I bought from the company that made them, "Fun Projects, Inc." years ago.Works very well, but still had a serious amperage drain on a long night drive. Adjusting the 3rd brush back and forth is a pain, just to remember to do it at least, Don't want to boil my battery during a long day trip. This is why I made the switch to LogoLites.

Like you, Ryan, my wiring and everything is top notch clean and tight, yes, I'm sure, as I do hold an F.A.A. mechanic's license. My buddy with the '30 roadster and flickering lights called Logolites and pressed the man for the voltage, response was; 8-12 Volts. I believe some guys have not noticed the flickering since it is not noticeable while driving the car at speed. Even at idle, one would need to have things just right to see the reflection of their headlights doing the "flicker dance".

CarlG · 08-31-2020, 05:21 PM

My pickup is now ALL LED. My headlights are from JDMastar, they utilize the same 9007 socket and reflectors that the Halogens did. I am very pleased with the light output and the fact that the electrical drain is nil. I have had no complaints regarding blinding oncoming traffic.

One of the best things I've done to my pickup to enhance the driving experience, especially at night.

Pat/Ohio · 09-01-2020, 10:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nomadpsd

I got mine here. Same bulb as the LogoLights.

https://www.ledlight.com/led-headlig...polarized.aspx

I just purchased these LED bulbs. I installed them on my 1932 Ford Standard Coupe. Below are the results. Installed one on the driver's side and compared the headlights in the daylight. As you can see...there is a noticeable difference in the brightness. I was still concerned what the pattern would look like at night. I installed LEDs in a '50 Ford and the pattern isn't as good as I would like.

Anyway, After it got dark out, I turned the LED headlights on to return my 5W to the car hauler (trailer) and I was pleasantly surprised to see the pattern actually where it needed to be and not in the trees etc. I didn't adjust the generator. In the daytime my amp gauge reads about 6-8 amps when driving. With the LEDs, my amp gauge read about 1-2 amps on the plus side. I am also running LED taillight bulbs.

I believe now I will go ahead and order a couple more of the LED bulbs to install in my '30 Town Sedan.

Stay Safe,
Pat

77Birdman · 09-02-2020, 07:50 AM

As a source for parts, try 'superbrightled's' a web search should bring them up. I do not know whether or not they have stuff to fit an 'A', but I have gotten some stuff for my modern old car.
Because all new cars use them, and I suppose the lack of ability to focus an aim?, MD inspections no longer test headlights. They used to have an aiming board with a couple of horizontal lines to use as headlight adjustments, these are no longer effective with led's.

nomadpsd · 09-02-2020, 11:34 AM

ledlight.com has a full line of 6V Positive Ground bulbs.
https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-posi...ed-lights.aspx

BRENT in 10-uh-C · 09-02-2020, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nomadpsd

ledlight.com has a full line of 6V Positive Ground bulbs.
https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-posi...ed-lights.aspx

Thank you for posting this. I knew LogoLites was not the brand I had used, but I could not remember the brand. As soon as I saw the website, I recognized it. The #: 87455 is is the ones I used in one of my Ts and my A. My 1915 only had single filament mag lights so I used one of the LED bulbs that only had the one contact.

JKY · 09-02-2020, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dean Lemoine

I recently installed Logolites LED “bulbs” in new reproduction headlights. Honestly I haven’t driven the car at night to see if they need adjusting or how bright they are. But, the low beams blink constantly while the high beam is fine. I was thinking it may be a wiring issue so I swapped the position of the LED on both lights. The low beam still blinks and the bright continues to be fine.
I e-mailed Logo today, no response yet.

Short in the driver that runs be bulb?

JKY · 09-02-2020, 05:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mass A man

I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

Excellent point on the flicker.

Dean Lemoine · 09-10-2020, 06:14 PM

A special thanks to Ian at Creating Connections (Logo Lites) in Duluth, Georgia. I sent my flickering LEDs back to them last week. After a couple of troubleshooting discussions over the phone, he sent me 2 new lights. I installed them today and they’re fine, no more flickering or blinking. It’s really nice to deal with such helpful folks. .... .....(To JKY, apparently it wasn’t a “short in the driver that runs the bulb”)

08-28-2020, 03:28 PM	#1
James G. Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: maryland Posts: 183	convert to LED headlights I do a bit of night time driving when on solo touring. For safety I want to convert my original incondecent to LED "bulbs". The word is they are a significant improvement thus safer on the road. What all is involved for this change. I do not want to make modifications to any original features/parts thus, hopefully just a plug in will get the job done. Even so, will the LED system retain the focusing ability to optimize the road illumination for night time driving? Pix please would be a great help if more than bulb replacement is required. Also, which and where is the best place for the needed quality parts. Many thanks.

08-28-2020, 03:40 PM	#2
Kurt in NJ Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: on the Littlefield Posts: 6,159	Re: convert to LED headlights Due to design constraints it will be impossible to get proper focus with existing led systems in original reflector---- you will get a lot of bright light all around like a flood light, but you want a beam projected down the road like a spot light to see in the distance

08-28-2020, 05:16 PM	#5
Dean Lemoine Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2018 Location: Dahlonega, Ga Posts: 251	Re: convert to LED headlights I recently installed Logolites LED “bulbs” in new reproduction headlights. Honestly I haven’t driven the car at night to see if they need adjusting or how bright they are. But, the low beams blink constantly while the high beam is fine. I was thinking it may be a wiring issue so I swapped the position of the LED on both lights. The low beam still blinks and the bright continues to be fine. I e-mailed Logo today, no response yet.

08-28-2020, 06:03 PM	#7
Dean Lemoine Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2018 Location: Dahlonega, Ga Posts: 251	Re: convert to LED headlights Tom, According to the website the LEDs are currently not in production due to Covid issues.

08-28-2020, 06:33 PM	#8
old31 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2016 Posts: 2,101	Re: convert to LED headlights No one has those leds, I tried. I switched from 50/50's to logo's and I am happy. Ya you use the focus ability but the pluses are much better as Brent mentioned.

08-28-2020, 07:27 PM	#9
Synchro909 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 7,496	Re: convert to LED headlights Every body looks at the conversion to LED lights from behind the steering wheel. Maybe, for the driver of that car, they are OK but by my experience, any oncoming driver is blinded by the dazzle no matter how well the driver thinks they are focused. A blinded driver coming straight at you at a closing speed of maybe 200 kph is not my idea of safety. __________________ I'm part of the only ever generation with an analogue childhood and a digital adulthood. Last edited by Synchro909; 08-28-2020 at 10:47 PM.

08-28-2020, 07:54 PM	#10
KGBnut Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Southwestern Connecticut Posts: 931	Re: convert to LED headlights Brent, whose LED bulbs are you using? __________________ Style beats speed any day, and with a lot fewer tickets.

08-28-2020, 07:55 PM	#11
nomadpsd Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Posts: 49	Re: convert to LED headlights I got mine here. Same bulb as the LogoLights. https://www.ledlight.com/led-headlig...polarized.aspx

08-29-2020, 08:42 AM	#12
PalAl Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2016 Location: Orangeville Illinois Posts: 461	Re: convert to LED headlights Some RFA's Club members are using these and really like them. My understanding is they got them at a show, not sure how it would be dealing direct with the company. I don't believe this company has any US distributors. First link is home page, second is direct to Model A LED Headlight http://www.classicandvintagebulbs.com/ http://www.classicandvintagebulbs.com/page6.html

08-29-2020, 08:56 AM	#13
Jack Shaft BANNED Join Date: Dec 2019 Posts: 1,196	Re: convert to LED headlights With a 12v conversion I used halogen H4 reflectors and installed the H4 based high/low LED bulbs...8k lumens.Nice white light,very bright.I aimed the buckets,dont blind oncoming drivers.Completely different bulbs than the 'A' ones,they have a mini fan in them..

08-29-2020, 09:05 AM	#14
Conaway2 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2019 Location: Mt. Pleasant, SC Posts: 601	Re: convert to LED headlights I converted headlights on my car - with stock electrical system - to the LogoLites LEDs last fall and have been very happy with them. My experience with them is much like Brent’s in post #4 - lots more light in front of the car at night, and current draw is about 2 amps. Check Smith and Jones Model A parts in Columbia, SC - they may still have some. Jim

08-29-2020, 09:52 AM	#16
Jack Shaft BANNED Join Date: Dec 2019 Posts: 1,196	Re: convert to LED headlights 12.57 lumens for each candle power..so 50cp is roughly 625 lumens..my LED's put out 8000 lumens..focus the beam? nah,turn the night into day

08-29-2020, 12:19 PM	#20
Kevin in NJ Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: South East NJ Posts: 3,398	Re: convert to LED headlights What is not brought out is where the light goes. It gets glossed over. The point to focusing the lamp is to put the light where it needs to go and not into the trees or the eyes of the oncoming cars. A while ago someone did tests with a light measuring device and found the halogen solution did put almost the same amount of light where you need it to drive. But it also put a lot of light all over the place. Pretty sure blinding oncoming traffic or be in the mirror of the car in front is a good thing. So a real test would be measuring the light in multiple places. I am pretty sure there are standards for light amounts in areas in front of the car. Do these LED lamps meet these requirements when used in the A headlamps? We do not know and likely will never know. If you are going to ask the questions you need to ask the right questions. As I recall the original type bulb with a good reflector and properly focused did a decent job lighting the road. A direct fit halogen did better. Both work fine with factory electrics.

08-29-2020, 01:39 PM	#21
30 Closed Cab PU Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 2,332	Re: convert to LED headlights If you do a search on LEDs here on the Barn, there is a ton of info on them including the Logo-lights. It is somewhat confusing since some say they are great, others object to them saying they do not focus/align in the correct pattern. I use the Logo lights primarily as daylight running lights, typically do not use them at night since I rarely drive the A at night.. I find they throw light everywhere, but then my reflectors were replaced 8-9 years ago, may be not shaped corectly, and I do not know where they came from. The Logo-lights are not exactly cheap, but conversion to the ones with the fans that are reported to work correctly are fairly expensive.

08-29-2020, 02:42 PM	#22
BRENT in 10-uh-C Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Eastern Tennessee Posts: 11,519	Re: convert to LED headlights I am answering Kevin in NJ comments below which are in the bold letters below; What is not brought out is where the light goes. It gets glossed over. I dunno where the light goes Kevin, ...the light probably evaporates into space somewhere. Seriously, is this the "right question" you think we should all be asking ourselves?? The point to focusing the lamp is to put the light where it needs to go and not into the trees or the eyes of the oncoming cars. Again, more misinformation. 'Aiming' and 'Focusing' are two different terms, -and you are confusing the two. 'Focusing' deals with making a crisp beam whereas 'Aiming' deals with keeping the light beam(s) out of the trees or oncoming traffic's eyes. Since an incandescent bulb only has one or maybe two filaments, the light of the filament is focused using the parabolic shape of the reflector to produce the furthest beam as possible with just that thin line of illumination. Focusing an LED bulb that has many diodes emitting in different locations is not necessary to concentrate a beam of light in a direction. The intensity of the diode(s) is what determines the distance and pattern. A while ago someone did tests with a light measuring device and found the halogen solution did put almost the same amount of light where you need it to drive. But it also put a lot of light all over the place. This all can be argued until Jesus comes back, but the bottom line is people need to trust people who have actually used them for their feedback, -and quit listening to people who have not even tried them. To prove my point, tell us all where you purchased your bulbs, and how long you tested them on your own car. My experience counters the opinions you are giving. Pretty sure blinding oncoming traffic or be in the mirror of the car in front is (not??) a good thing. This poor comment has been beat to death also. I am pretty sure I can blind oncoming motorists and/or motorists in front of me with an improperly aimed Model-A headlamp, -no matter whether it has an incandescent bulb or a halogen bulb. With that being the case, not sure how relevant it is to using an LED bulb when any bulb can be made to blind oncoming traffic or illuminate trees. So a real test would be measuring the light in multiple places. I am pretty sure there are standards for light amounts in areas in front of the car. I doubt you would like to compare a 32cp bulb with an original reflector in a modern DOT test where specifications are set for LED and Halogen lighting. Secondly, the "real test" is when someone here reports their findings when they have installed LED bulbs in their own Model-A. Do these LED lamps meet these requirements when used in the A headlamps? We do not know and likely will never know. If you are going to ask the questions you need to ask the right questions. Again, this same comment has been 'over-used' and it never gains any traction. Here are the truthful facts regarding this, ...most naysayers of the LED bulbs have never even used them, however they are full of opinions based on hearsay. Most people that have reported favorable results on this site and social media are people who HAVE used them and found them to be an improvement. As I recall the original type bulb with a good reflector and properly focused did a decent job lighting the road. A direct fit halogen did better. Both work fine with factory electrics. This I will partially agree with. The only thing is you left out one sentence. You should have added; 'Certain direct-fit LED bulbs have been found to produce more usable light than the incandescent and the retrofitted halogen bulbs.'. The LED bulbs have also been found to work fine with factory electrics. The bottom-line in this entire thread is people should only give feedback on subjects they have first-hand knowledge of, -and not an answer based on hearsay, opinions, or possibilities. . . __________________ . BRENT in 10-uh-C . www.model-a-ford.com ...(...Finally Updated!! ) .

08-29-2020, 10:43 PM	#23
Pete Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Wa. Posts: 5,409	Re: convert to LED headlights How come what with all of the internet and modern instant communication facilities, no one seems to know of the conversion kits available that enable you to install 7 inch standard seal beam headlamp bulbs, either 6 or 12 volt, inside a model A headlight bucket, with NO modification to the bucket and it keeps the original lens glass? All the changeover requires is a reasonable skill with a screwdriver. Modern cars still use these bulbs so it is very unlikely a model A is going to overdrive them. One big advantage of all this is they are FAR cheaper than 2 modern halogen or LED bulbs.

08-30-2020, 12:39 AM	#26
Bob Johnson Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: California Posts: 979	Re: convert to LED headlights Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) Here are some tests I did with Halogen and LED headlights. All pictures were taken with the same camera with the same exposure. Draw your own conclusions. Note the incandescent bulb pictures were mostly black.

08-30-2020, 11:05 AM	#27
katy Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Red Deer, Alberta Posts: 5,046	Re: convert to LED headlights I have these on my '31, Sealed beam adapter kit: https://snydersantiqueauto.com/Produ...hts/head-light __________________ If you don't hear a rumor by 10 AM, start one!. Got my education out behind the barn!

08-30-2020, 11:33 AM	#28
Jack Shaft BANNED Join Date: Dec 2019 Posts: 1,196	Re: convert to LED headlights A lumen is the measure of the amount of brightness of a light bulb.there is no focusing that can make up for LED bulbs being in some cases 10 times brighter than a conventional filament bulb. There is no difference in the 'quality' of light, light emitting diode bulbs can obtained in color of light displayed. Running a stock generator LED bulbs make sense on two levels,brighter and more effective lights at a lower draw than incandescents,that means less load..lees load makes amperage available for other circuits.

08-30-2020, 11:55 AM	#29
mass A man Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Danvers, Ma. Posts: 712	Re: convert to LED headlights I switched over to all LED's in the A, I do like the very low amp draw now at night. I hear that the Logo Lights are actually 8-12 volts, so at low RPM's or a low setting on 3rd brush, the lights will flicker, trying to stay lit. You may want to investigate this yourself.

08-30-2020, 01:39 PM	#33
mass A man Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Danvers, Ma. Posts: 712	Re: convert to LED headlights My headlamps are LogoLites. All other came from a different vendor. I've rewired and ran separate ground years ago when I was refreshing this old truck. Also I see where my tail lamps flicker a bit too, before I nudged my 3rd brush down a bit from mid-point to increase output. Haven't tested it out yet. Yes, the LogoLites do in fact "work", but flicker at times. Same comments of flickering lights from local friend with a '30 roadster, fully restored.

08-31-2020, 12:12 PM	#37
mass A man Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Danvers, Ma. Posts: 712	Re: convert to LED headlights I'm running the original generator with the Voltage regulator I bought from the company that made them, "Fun Projects, Inc." years ago.Works very well, but still had a serious amperage drain on a long night drive. Adjusting the 3rd brush back and forth is a pain, just to remember to do it at least, Don't want to boil my battery during a long day trip. This is why I made the switch to LogoLites. Like you, Ryan, my wiring and everything is top notch clean and tight, yes, I'm sure, as I do hold an F.A.A. mechanic's license. My buddy with the '30 roadster and flickering lights called Logolites and pressed the man for the voltage, response was; 8-12 Volts. I believe some guys have not noticed the flickering since it is not noticeable while driving the car at speed. Even at idle, one would need to have things just right to see the reflection of their headlights doing the "flicker dance".

08-31-2020, 05:21 PM	#38
CarlG Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Anchorage, Alaska Posts: 9,115	Re: convert to LED headlights My pickup is now ALL LED. My headlights are from JDMastar, they utilize the same 9007 socket and reflectors that the Halogens did. I am very pleased with the light output and the fact that the electrical drain is nil. I have had no complaints regarding blinding oncoming traffic. One of the best things I've done to my pickup to enhance the driving experience, especially at night. __________________ Alaskan A's Antique Auto Mushers of Alaska Model A Ford Club of America Model A Restorers Club Antique Automobile Club of America Mullins Owner's Club

09-02-2020, 07:50 AM	#40
77Birdman Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2018 Location: North Eastern MD Posts: 486	Re: convert to LED headlights As a source for parts, try 'superbrightled's' a web search should bring them up. I do not know whether or not they have stuff to fit an 'A', but I have gotten some stuff for my modern old car. Because all new cars use them, and I suppose the lack of ability to focus an aim?, MD inspections no longer test headlights. They used to have an aiming board with a couple of horizontal lines to use as headlight adjustments, these are no longer effective with led's.

09-02-2020, 11:34 AM	#41
nomadpsd Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Posts: 49	Re: convert to LED headlights ledlight.com has a full line of 6V Positive Ground bulbs. https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-posi...ed-lights.aspx

09-10-2020, 06:14 PM	#45
Dean Lemoine Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2018 Location: Dahlonega, Ga Posts: 251	Re: convert to LED headlights A special thanks to Ian at Creating Connections (Logo Lites) in Duluth, Georgia. I sent my flickering LEDs back to them last week. After a couple of troubleshooting discussions over the phone, he sent me 2 new lights. I installed them today and they’re fine, no more flickering or blinking. It’s really nice to deal with such helpful folks. .... .....(To JKY, apparently it wasn’t a “short in the driver that runs the bulb”)