Replacement Brake Bulbs

[Nickleback]

Just got back from a local run having been told one of my brake lights is not working on my S2. Investigated and it is a blown Ring 21/5 bulb.
Rather than just buy a std replacement, I thought that now is the time to fit LED bulbs which are brighter & draw less current which should help reduce loads on the old girl !
What's the latest thinking and experience with these on a Std car without modifying it further and keeping it legal
What spec LED's should I order and which manufacturer is most reliable ?

[mgcjag]

Hi Mike...sorry to change the subject but your back on the road...did i mis something i thought you were waiting a rebuild... Steve

[Nickleback]

Hi Steve,
All done under warranty and I am back on the road, done just over 400 miles so far,
& I will be at the E-Type UK Open Day next weekend.

[Heuer]

More info: viewtopic.php?f=9&t=6376

[Nickleback]

Thanks David, my previous search had found that thread but as it was a couple of years ago wondered if they was later / currect info or is it still the same ?

[mgcjag]

Hi Mike..what was the problem...

[Heuer]

Still the same information for the S1. LED bulbs work better in the S2 as the lenses and reflectors are larger so you could give it a go and report back. LED technology has moved on and the directional issues may have been solved. You should also consider replacing the brake light switch at the same time: viewtopic.php?f=9&t=3134

[Hugo]

I love LED's. I always go for the more expensive ones. Tail & brake lights are fine, but if you fit them to the turn signals you will probaby have to fit a resistor, otherwise the flasher unit won't be able to figure out what's going on. Electronic flasher units are unaffected, but the old bi-metallic ones need a certain load in order to flash.

[chrisfell]

I considered LEDs a few years back, even bought some samples to see how they compared with standard tungsten bulbs. I wasn't impressed. Maybe things have moved on in the last two years such that LEDs are brighter than tungsten. The weren't two back then.

But I got to thinking what was the point. There is so little gain to be had in the lower current, and if this would make any difference to the cost of running a car, then an E Type isn't your kind of car. So the only realistic argument for LEDs is improved safety.

And then I wondered what kind of driver wouldn't notice they were following a bright red , highly polished E Type, but would notice very marginally brighter brake lights? The answer is why I keep to standard bulbs.

[Nickleback]

I have an S2 FHC with the original XKE rear lights, on them I already have fitted Marek's inbuilt LED reversing light conversion which I am really pleased with for reversing into a pitch black garage.
The next logical step is to replace the original brake & side light bulbs with brighter LED's (with directional issues resolved ?), my primary drivers being increased safely (brightness) and reliability given the original loom & loads.
When I looked at suitable LED's they come in so many different internal design styles, make up & suppliers that it really became quite confusing as to which way to proceed ? - So does anyone have experience with this already and can advise?
My thinking long term would be to get those working and looking correct then add a LED highline brake light along with a new upgraded brake switch.

Steve in answer to your question it was the oil pump.

[Hugo]

All I can say is look for a reputable brand name rather than a Chinese knock-off.