I'm considering putting some off-road lights on my truck. I'd like to put them behind the grill so that they are out of the way and at least somewhat shielded.

There appears to be a metal bar behind the grill. Is that safe to use for mounting lights?

 

now that the search feature is supposedly working, may try and search for "grill lights", this issue has been discussed extensively lately...

 

I'll try a search now. Thanks.

Ok, search is still not up to speed. But I'll try back Sunday.

 

That metal bar is really fiberglass and thats was everyone is using. Some people are using some angle iron to reinforce it but I've had no trouble with mine.

 

I used an "L" shaped bar (about 2" wide) that can be purchased at Home Depot. I mounted it to the radiator support and mounted the lights upside down. No problems so far, just be sure to aim the lights before reinstalling the grille.

 

Ok, thanks for the posts. That looks great. I'll also do some searching when the index building is done and read up. I'm sure I'll see some pictures on the interior switches people have places as well.

 

 

Firezapper,

Do you have 1 switch controlling each individual light? Did you install your own switches and leds? Awesome job and so neat....I don't know if I have the patience and ability to do such a fine job.

Any tips and instructions for doing a good job? BTW, what type of lights behind the grille and down low? Any special electrical requirements due to the extra power draw?

Is that a Stull billet grille? Any special grille that works better for allowing maximum light thru and still giving a nice look?

Sorry for all the questions, but I'm just beginning my upgrade quest if you will and I love your trucks look.

 

The lights in the grill are Eagle from JC Whitney 5" outside 6" inside. The ones in the lower part are Pilot from Ames. I also have oval pilot as reverse lights.

As for the switches, I have 5 sets of lights (4 switched) and I'm thinking either fog lights where the front plate is or underbody neon.

The switches are 120 volt units, I have the same ones in my range hood. I made a cardboard template and cut out the plastic. I got lucky because another 1/4 inch to the right and they wouldn't have fit because of the bracing behind.

As for power I have an aux. fuse block under the hood that I wired to the battery. I also have relays on each sets of lights. The 4 behind the grill are switched with the high beams only, the lower ones I use as DRL's so they come on with the ignition and the reverse one have 2 switching points, the reverse lights and constant power to assist in hooking up a trailer at night.


Fuse block


Relay (now have 5)


For info on all my lights
http://www.f150world.com/firezapper/?album=350

My photo gallery
http://www.f150world.com/firezapper/

 

i put the 4' CAT lights behind my grille in the fiberglass with plans for two more sometime next week.....never had anyproblems with them and theyre sturdy too!
JJ