Hey all!

After stumbling on this thread (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4870072#post4870072) I decided to do a more complete write-up with detailed instructions and pictures as I could not really understand what was going on in that thread. :( I also realized that this is, BY FAR, the coolest modification aesthetically and electronically. :redspot

The purpose of this modification is for the angel eye rings to fade on when the interior lights go on and for the angel eye rings to fade off when the interior lights go off. Since I have an aftermarket alarm, this is considered a "remote" feature.

You do NOT have to have an alarm nor angel eyes to utilize this write-up. You could have your city lights fade on/off whenever you unlock/lock your vehicle with your key as well. The possibilities are endless. :stickoutt

Anyway, without further ado, here is what you need:

- Wire stripper (I prefer using scissors)
- 4 male connectors (one pink, one blue, preferably)
- 1 female connector (pink, preferably)
- 3 wire taps
- 1 diode (I used a 2.5A 1000V one - 3pk @ Radio Shack $1.69)
- 3-4 feet of electrical tape (NOT PICTURED)
- electrical tape or heat shrink & lighter (NOT PICTURED)
- crimper
- screwdriver (Philips - standard size "+")
- voltmeter (just in case)

*ALL PICTURES ARE RESIZED TO 60%! IF YOU WANT LARGER PICTURES, PLEASE EMAIL ME: clumpymold@sbcglobal.net "

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9325.JPG

I realized, after completing this project, that you do NOT need the two pink pairs of male/female connectors (center left in picture). In case you do not know, pink colored connectors are for smaller gauge wires whereas blue are for larger gauge wires. I'd recommend pink throughout unless you're combining two wires into one connector.

I arranged the connectors and wire taps in essentially the format you're going to be replicating (minus the two PAIRS of pink connectors).

Since I had everything above, the only thing I had to purchase for this DIY was the diodes. Total cost ~$2.00. :D

Summary: What you're basically going to be doing is connecting the two wires going to each side of the parking lights (i.e., your angel eyes) with one wire and connecting that wire to the positive wire of your footwell light (or dome light for you older model BMWs). It's pretty much as simple as that.

Here's a picture of my Bentley Repair Manual electrical diagram in case anyone was curious as to what I'm doing:

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9339.JPG

First off, remove the three screws holding the panel above the pedals. One is to the left of the steering wheel, another to the right, and the third is underneath on the left side (see pictures below). While doing that, remove that one screw holding the light switch in place (see first picture):

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9330.JPG
http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9331.JPG
http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9333.JPG

After you remove all the screws, grasp the left side of the panel and pull slightly outward away from the car. You'll see this plastic tab which holds the panel in place:

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9335.JPG

You'll then see this mess:

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9337.JPG

Now unplug (i.e., by squeezing) the black and white connectors plugged into whatever that funky circular thing is :stickoutt . Pull the plug connected to the footwell light (black plug) and disconnect your OBDII connector (if you have one). Pull panel towards the driver's seat and set panel aside.

Now gently pull the headlight switch out. What you'll see behind is one white plug for the fog lights and a round black plug for the main headlight switch (see picture below). Squeeze the white plug and disconnect. Remove the round plug by turning counter-clockwise (when facing the plug as if you were IN the dash). Set entire swith and vent aside.

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9338.JPG

What you're looking for are TWO wires. One is GRAY/VIOLET and the other is GRAY/YELLOW. I found it is MUCH easier to gain access to these wires by sliding the round plug down towards the footwell light and pulling it out from there. Now once you get those two wires out, use two wire taps, one on each wire and connect them using another wire and a MALE connector on each end of that wire (I used two separate wires instead combined into one blue male connector instead and my GRAY/YELLOW wire already happened to have a connector from a previous install so ignore that). Then add another wire tap at the center of that new wire.

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9341.JPG

What I normally do when using wire taps is I make a tiny slit in the wire to increase the connection and then crimp the tap to that (see below).

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9342.JPG

Using a longer piece of wire (~2-3'), crimp a male connector on one side and a female connector on the other side. Plug the male side into the open/free wire tap above (at the center of the wire connecting the two wires). For the female side, you're going to use a DIODE to prevent the interior lights from coming on when using your parking lights. I used a FEMALE connector on the CATHODE side (grey stripe) and a MALE connector on ANODE side. BEFORE crimping the connectors, slide a piece of heat shrink over it (these suckers get HOT!) or you can use electrical tape afterwards. Connect as follows (the diode in the picture below has blue connectors because I already heat shrunk the diode I was going to use - so use PINK connectors as the diode's wires are pretty thin):

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9348.JPG
http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/Resize%20of%20PICT9350.JPG

Finally, add another wire tap to your POSITIVE (i.e., RED) wire connected to your footwell light (I used the long one that is attached to my lighted door sills since they were easier to access). Connect your diode (male connector) to this wire tap. Now plug the headlight switch back in and close your door. Test and make sure this modification works. Turn on your parking lights and make sure your interior lights do NOT go on. Arm/lock and disarm/unlock. If all works well, tuck the wires away carefully and replace the panel. Install is reverse of removal.

Here is a wiring schematic created by "olsen185" also in post #34 of this thread:

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/remote%20ccfl.JPG

After all is done, admire your work :buttrock (right-click, save file as and then CHANGE file extension from .jpg to .mov):

Remote Angel Eye fade on/off!!! (http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/clumpymold/original/PICT9353.jpg)

UPDATE!!! Here's a link a member on here (Proteus) created for this file:

http://www.klamakazi.com/movies/AngelFade.mov

My right side ring is slightly dim (a weak connection). I was too lazy to fix this. Will do this later but you get the point. The sound you hear is from my two-way remote and NOT my car.

In order for me to continue to spend time creating these write-ups, please leave feedback and comments in this thread. :D :alright

If you guys have any questions, please either post in this thread or email me (NO PMS!!!): clumpymold@sbcglobal.net

awesome just awesome

also do you have a thread on get your corners to blink with the alarm setting?

awesome just awesome

also do you have a thread on get your corners to blink with the alarm setting?
Thank you!

Nope, no write-up for that. I had my alarm installed while I got my tint done. I did this on my previous car, though. You'd have to look at your alarm's manual and tap the proper wire from the "brain" of the alarm's arm/disarm wire to the parking lights. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. Every alarm is different. :(

its cool thanks anyways.

OT, clumps, I just sawe your CarDomain page, and OMG :eek: It's seriously one of the best E36's I've seen! :thumbup: You really need a sig to show that thing off! :D

Nice write up btw :thumbup:

OT, clumps, I just sawe your CarDomain page, and OMG :eek: It's seriously one of the best E36's I've seen! :thumbup: You really need a sig to show that thing off! :D

Nice write up btw :thumbup:
Haha, thank you for your kind words. I had a sig with my car in it. But I needed a change. I'm horrible at photoshop so it's basically whoever can do one for me. ;)

Okay, I'll change the picture now. :D

noice! If you pm me a pic, I'll make you one tomorrow ;) I'm friggin tired now...

noice! If you pm me a pic, I'll make you one tomorrow ;) I'm friggin tired now...
How do I "PM" you a picture? If you like any particular picture in my sig link, just use that one. If you can list some of my "major" mods, that'll be awesome. :buttrock

Thanks again!

clumpymold@sbcglobal.net

Okay, wait a second. If it comes on with the dome lights, does that mean that it turns off with the dome lights when the alarm isn't engaged? If I unlock the doors and disengage the alarm to turn them on, it means I'm going to be driving, and I want them to stay on after I get in and turn on the car, and not turn off until I set the alarm again. Is that what they do, or what?

Okay, wait a second. If it comes on with the dome lights, does that mean that it turns off with the dome lights when the alarm isn't engaged? If I unlock the doors and disengage the alarm to turn them on, it means I'm going to be driving, and I want them to stay on after I get in and turn on the car, and not turn off until I set the alarm again. Is that what they do, or what?
I'm a little confused. If you wire it up properly the rings will light up whenever your interior lights go on. They will go off whenever your interior lights go out. Simple as that.

If you turn on your parking lights, they will also go on. :D

ahh, now I'm following you. thanks for the clarification.

ahh, now I'm following you. thanks for the clarification.
No problem! Are you going to do this on your 5 series? I wonder if that will work and how different, if any, it is compared to the 3 series.

Can you do this same thing only with City lights and not angel eyes?

So whenever I open up my car, with the dome lights on, it could turn on whatever exterior lights I wire it up to? Headlights, corners, etc. Also how do I change it to a movie? When I open up the folder by right-clicking then properties it is locked where I could normally change the address, maybe I could try making it a shortcut?

Can you do this same thing only with City lights and not angel eyes?
Of course. You can have your fog lights turn on if you want. It's all up to you.

Read first post. ;)


So whenever I open up my car, with the dome lights on, it could turn on whatever exterior lights I wire it up to? Headlights, corners, etc. Also how do I change it to a movie? When I open up the folder by right-clicking then properties it is locked where I could normally change the address, maybe I could try making it a shortcut?

Yep, see reply above.

Change the file to a movie? Well, you'll need to enable your computer to view extensions (it's OFF by default - stupid WinXP being designed for idiots :( ). Just rename the file extension (pressing F2) from .jpg to .mov. Unless someone here has a server for me to upload the video, my site only allows me to upload pictures (.jpg). :(

Hope that helps!

Wait so you tapped the gray/yellow wire and the purple/gray wire INTO the red wire?

Wait so you tapped the gray/yellow wire and the purple/gray wire INTO the red wire?
So to speak. I ran a wire from the gray/yellow and gray/violet wires and connected that to the red wire. But I also ran a diode in that wire to prevent the power from going to the interior lights when the parking lights were activated. Make sense?

Perfect if visibly it is only rims of the angle eyes that light up. But I am definitely gonna do this when my Chromium arrives. All credit goes to you!

Perfect if visibly it is only rims of the angle eyes that light up. But I am definitely gonna do this when my Chromium arrives. All credit goes to you!
Thank you! :buttrock

Change the file to a movie? Well, you'll need to enable your computer to view extensions (it's OFF by default - stupid WinXP being designed for idiots :( ). Just rename the file extension (pressing F2) from .jpg to .mov. Unless someone here has a server for me to upload the video, my site only allows me to upload pictures (.jpg). :(

Hope that helps!

Would someone mind explaining this a bit better? I tried it at home on XP and again in the office on 2000 and all it's doing is renaming the file as PICT9353.mov.jpg.

Would someone mind explaining this a bit better? I tried it at home on XP and again in the office on 2000 and all it's doing is renaming the file as PICT9353.mov.jpg.
It's because Windows, by default, will "Hide Extension for known file types". So when you rename it by adding something at the end, it'll just add it at the end.

To enable this, go to your My Computer, Tools, Folder Options, then UNCHECK the box that says "Hide Extension...". THEN try renaming it. ;)

Otherwise, you can try opening your video player and dragging that file into it. I think that should work too. :D

Good luck!

grazi.

That is awesome. I'd seriously think about doing that when I get around to upgrading my headlights.

looks good man! not something i'd do because i dislike DDEs to begin with, but nice work!!

I have done this...only complaint is that the "fade out" kind of sucks -- it fades a little and then just goes out. Not a complete fade out.

Also, one of my rings is dim when they come on -- its ok when the car is on...i guess there isnt enuf power w/o the car on to light them all brightly.

Easy mod though.

So to speak. I ran a wire from the gray/yellow and gray/violet wires and connected that to the red wire. But I also ran a diode in that wire to prevent the power from going to the interior lights when the parking lights were activated. Make sense?



It seems so simple...Thanks for the great writeup

I have done this...only complaint is that the "fade out" kind of sucks -- it fades a little and then just goes out. Not a complete fade out.

Also, one of my rings is dim when they come on -- its ok when the car is on...i guess there isnt enuf power w/o the car on to light them all brightly.

Easy mod though.
One of my rings is dim as well. It SHOULD be enough power (12v) to light up your rings. If ONE of your rings is dim (like mine), then you need to double check your connections. One of my connections is weak as well (see picture above of the two wires going into one connector at the parking light switch). Every now and then, the rings ALL light up fully. Sometimes, however, I get ONE dim ring which is the far right ring (hence the yellow/gray wire).

Check which side your dim ring is on. Then go back and double check the associated wire. ;)

Good luck!

Clumpy for president. World President.

Clumpy for president. World President.
Haha. Thank you! :redspot

Emailed ya, clumpy :)

so it will work with stock headlights? so later if I get aftermarket headlights, it will be all ready for me?

Has anyone done this by wiring up to the dome light rather than footwell light? If so, where'd you find the dome light wire?

awesome write up. im going to try it.

mike

Is this basically what you are doing (see pic)?

nice picture.. that helps alot

mike

I'm not sure if it's correct. Hopefully clumpymold will chime in soon and let us know. I think that is how he wired the lights up, but I am not sure.

My interior lights dont FADE in or out they just turn on/off. I'm assuming i cant do this? how can i get around it to make my AEs fade??

mike

:clap one of the coolest write-ups I've seen in a while - wish I had angel eyes now .. Only suggestion I have is that judging by the movie, I would want the fade to be a bit slower when turning on for a more "dramatic" effect, I guess.

Has anyone done this by wiring up to the dome light rather than footwell light? If so, where'd you find the dome light wire?


Which dome light? The ones in the back or the one by rearview mirror?I ran a wire to the one in the back, tapped into the brown/red wire it'll work. Great write-up crumpy.

so it will work with stock headlights? so later if I get aftermarket headlights, it will be all ready for me?
It should. Just not sure what you're going to be turning on though. :dunno

Is this basically what you are doing (see pic)?
Yes, that picture is PERFECT. Just make sure the diode is facing the right direction. ;)

:clap one of the coolest write-ups I've seen in a while - wish I had angel eyes now .. Only suggestion I have is that judging by the movie, I would want the fade to be a bit slower when turning on for a more "dramatic" effect, I guess.

:buttrock Thank you!

I don't think it's possible to have the fade last longer unfortunately. These are gas rings, I believe. Not filaments. It's like trying to make fluorescent bulbs fade (or HIDs). :(

Just finished doing this, damn it's cool. Thanks Clumpy! :D

Just finished doing this, damn it's cool. Thanks Clumpy! :D
Anytime! That's what I like to hear. ;)

Now let's get a nice video of your car. :stickoutt

Which dome light? The ones in the back or the one by rearview mirror?I ran a wire to the one in the back, tapped into the brown/red wire it'll work. Great write-up crumpy.
Thanks. But it's "clumpy" for short. clumpymold is the full name. NOT "Clumpymold". Just clumpymold. ;)

thanks for the writeup... im sure some ppl will have use for it.

thanks for the writeup... im sure some ppl will have use for it.
Thanks! What do you mean "some people"? You're not going to use it? :dunno

Little OT, but may I ask where that name originated, Clumpy?

My interior lights dont FADE in or out they just turn on/off. I'm assuming i cant do this? how can i get around it to make my AEs fade??

mike


help

Little OT, but may I ask where that name originated, Clumpy?
It's "clumpy" and not "Clumpy". See post above. ;)

Anyway, random story but "clumpymold" came about long time ago when I used AOL. Back then, you had to choose a screenname everytime before you logged on. If it was taken, you had to choose another one. I originally had "lumpy" (not sure why but it sounded funny). After a few weeks (this was back in 1994), it started getting taken. I then added a "c" and made it "clumpy". Then it also started getting taken.

This got frustrating so I realized I had to create a name that sounded like a name and not like "xXaznb8ll3rxX" or any other random arrangement of letters and numbers. I had a pet dog on my computer which was green and that I named "mold". I then just combined the two. Now, it's a random name that's never taken. You can even search for "clumpymold" on most sites and if it's there, it's me. ;) If not, I haven't been there. :redspot



help
I really have no idea. Maybe try adding a rheostat? But that's controlled by you. Not sure what causes the dimming of the interior lights. Strange how yours doesn't do it. :dunno

That's pretty weird how that came about :stickoutt

And hey, I was gonna make u a new sig remember? The cardomain pics are tiny :stickoutt

You can host imgs in imageshack.us then send me the link if you want...i'm so bored, and on a saturday night...o well :(

That's pretty weird how that came about :stickoutt

And hey, I was gonna make u a new sig remember? The cardomain pics are tiny :stickoutt

You can host imgs in imageshack.us then send me the link if you want...i'm so bored, and on a saturday night...o well :(
Thanks! Yeah, it's a pretty strange story. But at least it's somewhat original. :D

Oh, yeah, those Cardomain pictures are ridiculous. :(

I uploaded all those "main" pictures (unresized) here:

http://s21.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2RL3X6QKOKNV33Q5B42VJOOYP8

Let me know if you need anything else. :)

Oh, I actually wanted to make a sig with a drawing of my car (bad drawing) with my "little"/random mods. Mods such as:

color-matched door bolts
color-matched brake/clutch fluid reservoir
color-matched washer fluid reservoir
color-matched tissue box
rearranged taillight cluster
custom drilled front hood shocks
color-matched exhaust
black roundel stickers
chrome painted rear turn signals
front parking light delete
new oem m3 manual
sunroof eclipse
bmw oem m3 wheel locks
personalized license plate
full xenon-style interior lighting (and license plate and trunk lights)

:stickoutt

Maybe, if you have time, make a nice one with my main mods of your choosing (see my Cardomain.com site for list) and another one with a few of the above listed random mods? :)

Thanks again!

:buttrock

you got mail :) I'll make the second one when I get a chance. Probably tomorrow ;)

you got mail :) I'll make the second one when I get a chance. Probably tomorrow ;)
:buttrock

Just sent you a reply.

Any other questions fellas on the write-up? :D

If I got new headlights it wouldn't be for a few months can you pin this DIY? I don't want to lose it!

If I got new headlights it wouldn't be for a few months can you pin this DIY? I don't want to lose it!
I don't know if I can do that but the moderators can.

Just drag the address onto your desktop. That way you'll have an instant link whenever you want. Or better yet, just print it out. ;)

Okay, just checked the poll. Thanks for all those that posted that this was a great write-up. :buttrock

For those that didn't, please state why. I would like to know what I'm missing in order to create better write-ups in the future. I hope the reason is not the content as that does not determine the quality of the write-up (IMO at least). Should I add more pictures? More steps? :(

Thanks all!

Bumpin' for those that haven't seen this mod yet. :D

Hey clumpymold, nice write-up. Clear pictures always are a super positive! I want to say also that the graphic by olsen185 really enhanced that last bit of understanding though. Thanks for putting in the work to write this, I think Im going to try this next weekend, cause Im doing the Chromiums today

The only problem I have with this is pretty simple. I can't do it :(

My DDE's are wired on a separate harness and to doa remote kit I have tun run a wire through the firewall (glovebox remove and run wire through etc.). Never wanted to go through the effort for the remote kit, I actually had a pretty good idea of how I wanted to wire it too. :D

Hey clumpymold, nice write-up. Clear pictures always are a super positive! I want to say also that the graphic by olsen185 really enhanced that last bit of understanding though. Thanks for putting in the work to write this, I think Im going to try this next weekend, cause Im doing the Chromiums today
Thank you. And yes, olsen185's pic is VERY helpful. In fact, I'll add it into the first post now (giving credit of course ;) ).

Good luck today. If you need anything, post here. :D

The only problem I have with this is pretty simple. I can't do it :(

My DDE's are wired on a separate harness and to doa remote kit I have tun run a wire through the firewall (glovebox remove and run wire through etc.). Never wanted to go through the effort for the remote kit, I actually had a pretty good idea of how I wanted to wire it too. :D
I don't understand. Unless you have your DDE on a switch that is located in your engine bay, it should still be possible. :dunno

Please explain. I'll see if I can help you out. :D

I don't understand. Unless you have your DDE on a switch that is located in your engine bay, it should still be possible. :dunno

Please explain. I'll see if I can help you out. :D
I'm pretty good electrically so I actually know exactly what to do. But I have a relay in my engine bay that is triggered by the fuse for the OBC (which comes on in position 1 and 2 of the key).

I have a 5 pin relay so I can run a remote kit of the relay and just tap into my dome light, but the factory wiring comes in through the fender so I have to find a spot in my firewall, requires removing the glovebox...etc. Not worth it for me yet. If I did something it would probably be a more sophisticated system with a dimmer etc. on it. Sometimes the DDE's are just too bright.

When I get my angel-eyes, I'm mos def gonna try this. Gracias for the write-up!

Very nice! Clumpy, this is kinda off topic but did anyone help you get that problem fixed on your car? The oil and that crap you found in it?

Very nice! Clumpy, this is kinda off topic but did anyone help you get that problem fixed on your car? The oil and that crap you found in it?
Thanks for the compliments!

Vbp6us: as far as the "problem" regarding the chunk of metal found in my oil, it's not really a "problem" as nothing is affected as of yet. Here's the thread:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=401183

THIS, however, is a problem to me: :(

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4935213#post4935213

I'm pretty good electrically so I actually know exactly what to do. But I have a relay in my engine bay that is triggered by the fuse for the OBC (which comes on in position 1 and 2 of the key).

I have a 5 pin relay so I can run a remote kit of the relay and just tap into my dome light, but the factory wiring comes in through the fender so I have to find a spot in my firewall, requires removing the glovebox...etc. Not worth it for me yet. If I did something it would probably be a more sophisticated system with a dimmer etc. on it. Sometimes the DDE's are just too bright.
Hmm, why do you have a relay? Do you HAVE to have one? I mean, if not, then just remove it.

Also, why are you tapping into your dome light? Do you not have footwell lights? I thought those were on 1996+ cars. :dunno

Hmm, why do you have a relay? Do you HAVE to have one? I mean, if not, then just remove it.

Also, why are you tapping into your dome light? Do you not have footwell lights? I thought those were on 1996+ cars. :dunno
1997+ actually. I had a list of all the 1997+ stuff once, I was going to convert it all because it was cool...then realized it would be a waste.

And I used a relay because I didn't want to have to turn it on everytime by popping my hood, drive with my parking lights on, or run wires into the cabin. And I have a pile of relays and wire so it cost me like $1 for heatshrink.

edit: I used a relay because I always wanted the DDE's on. I wanted it to have an independant circuit (I used a fuse etc.) so I didn't risk any wiring on the factory harness, and because I like having the amber parking lights at night for safety (it can't hurt) but don't want them on during the day because it would look funny.

1997+ actually. I had a list of all the 1997+ stuff once, I was going to convert it all because it was cool...then realized it would be a waste.

And I used a relay because I didn't want to have to turn it on everytime by popping my hood, drive with my parking lights on, or run wires into the cabin. And I have a pile of relays and wire so it cost me like $1 for heatshrink.

edit: I used a relay because I always wanted the DDE's on. I wanted it to have an independant circuit (I used a fuse etc.) so I didn't risk any wiring on the factory harness, and because I like having the amber parking lights at night for safety (it can't hurt) but don't want them on during the day because it would look funny.
Hmm. Maybe you should wire in a separate switch for your parking lights (corners)? Then you can have your rings go on without the parking lights. Then you can just switch on your parking lights at night. It would be a lot easier since there's already wiring to the cabin for that.

Also, why would you want your DDEs on during the day? :confused

Oh, and I just noticed now TWO "pointless/bad modification and write-up". I think next time I should include usernames. :nono

If you're voting this as a bad write-up, PLEASE explain why. It's not like you're telling me in person. It's online. Geez. Grow up guys. Especially if you're just voting to spite me. :(

My contribution made the diy write-up :alright Funny thing is I haven't even tried this mod yet. :) Glad I could be some help. Nice write up Clumpy!!

Hmm. Maybe you should wire in a separate switch for your parking lights (corners)? Then you can have your rings go on without the parking lights. Then you can just switch on your parking lights at night. It would be a lot easier since there's already wiring to the cabin for that.

Also, why would you want your DDEs on during the day? :confused
I like them on during the day, "Daylight Demon Eyes," come on people around here ride with parking lights on during the day because they are too lazy to make a harness like I did. And you lost me with the switch thing, I just haven't dropped my glovebox to run the wiring through for the relay switch etc. I have the buttons drilled and mounted in the cabin, just never got around to actually wiring them up :stickoutt

I like them on during the day, "Daylight Demon Eyes," come on people around here ride with parking lights on during the day because they are too lazy to make a harness like I did. And you lost me with the switch thing, I just haven't dropped my glovebox to run the wiring through for the relay switch etc. I have the buttons drilled and mounted in the cabin, just never got around to actually wiring them up :stickoutt
When you say "parking lights" are you just meaning the front corners? If so, then why don't you just have a separate switch for JUST the front corners. So you can then wire up your DDEs to your parking lights. They'll go on by themselves since you now have the corners on a switch. Then, when it gets nighttime, you can switch them on separately. Make sense?

I just figured it'd be easier to make a switch for your front corners than a switch for your DDEs. :dunno

When you say "parking lights" are you just meaning the front corners? If so, then why don't you just have a separate switch for JUST the front corners. So you can then wire up your DDEs to your parking lights. They'll go on by themselves since you now have the corners on a switch. Then, when it gets nighttime, you can switch them on separately. Make sense?

I just figured it'd be easier to make a switch for your front corners than a switch for your DDEs. :dunno
Parking lights are front and rear, but wiring a switch requires getting into the cabin either way. Its actually easier for me to wire a switch onto my DDE's because of the relay setup.

Parking lights are front and rear, but wiring a switch requires getting into the cabin either way. Its actually easier for me to wire a switch onto my DDE's because of the relay setup.
Oh, I thought you were referring to JUST the front parking lights.

If it's the front that's annoying to have on all the time, I think it would have been easier to wire a switch for those lights since there's already a connection IN your cabin. You wouldn't have to run a wire through the firewall.

That way, you can have your parking lights on all the time without that annoying front amber corners on. And when you want them on at night, just flick the switch.

And yes, it's easier to wire your DDEs because of the relay setup. But now it's harder to do this mod. ;)

If you switch what lights are controlled (controling front ambers vs. DDEs), you'll be able to do this mod no problem. :D

Make sense?

:)

nice man!

if its not producing enough power and they appear dim, put a capacitor inline to hold some power!

I finally got around to doing this mod. I love it!! It would look soo much better if the DDE's would light up evenly!! Btw I noticed that the diode gets a little hot, is it supposed to? As soon as I tried this new mod the diode heated up enough to shrink the heat shrink wrap.

neocloud if its not producing enough power and they appear dim, put a capacitor inline to hold some power!

explain please (what type of cap, where to place, ect..)

I finally got around to doing this mod. I love it!! It would look soo much better if the DDE's would light up evenly!!



explain please (what type of cap, where to place, ect..)

Yeah I hate that when it's cold. They just don't get enough power from the footwell light.

Is anyone else getting a brake circut error on the obc??

Is anyone else getting a brake circut error on the obc??
Nope, could that be a problem with your taillights?

Yeah I hate that when it's cold. They just don't get enough power from the footwell light.

Yeah, tell me about it. I noticed this issue when really cold too. :(

Sorry to bring back an older post but can anyone tell me if there is an easy way to get power from the dome light? anyone know where the wire comes down at/ a place i can tap into?

anyone know where the wire comes down at/ a place i can tap into?

I went right to the dome light and ran it down the A pillar. If you need it I can pull down the light and get you the wire color. As far as fishing the wire from dome light to the pillar, you just need to unscrew the driver's side visor and visor clip. After that use a long piece of stiff wire and fish it from the dome light to the side. It took me about 20 mins.

Bumping up old thread, thinking about doing this. I wonder if you switch to LED lights in the interior (I did) if that leaves more power for the Mod... (since LED's use 1/10th the power of the stock bulbs)

Sorry to bring back an older post but can anyone tell me if there is an easy way to get power from the dome light? anyone know where the wire comes down at/ a place i can tap into?

Yes, id also like to know this...95 318.

If its all the way up at the dome then you need some sort of extra wire to run from there to your light switch right? Any info appreciated! :buttrock

Thanks
Justin

Awsome man. Im going to radio shack tomorrow.

I'm a bit confused here.
since you are connecting your angel eyes to your dome light, shouldn't the angel eyes turn on everytime you turn on your interior lights or open your doors?

This is great, very thorough and well thought out. If only I had the angle eyes to go with the write up. :(

I'm a bit confused here.
since you are connecting your angel eyes to your dome light, shouldn't the angel eyes turn on everytime you turn on your interior lights or open your doors?
That's what the diode is for. ;)

I finally got around to doing this mod. I love it!! It would look soo much better if the DDE's would light up evenly!! Btw I noticed that the diode gets a little hot, is it supposed to? As soon as I tried this new mod the diode heated up enough to shrink the heat shrink wrap.



explain please (what type of cap, where to place, ect..)

I modified it a bit and I would use two larger diodes (2.5A - 3A) instead. By using 2 diodes I reduced the load by half and therefore diodes won't get very warm.

Very good DIY dude :alright

Sorry for some reason server won't let me to upload the picture, view it from here:
http://www.fxmasters.ca/KVF/Auto%20dim.jpg

Just got done doing this... It took about 30 mins and all i can say is wow..... I know its a simple little mod, but i love it. Thanks for the write up.

sick!

That's what the diode is for. ;)

i thought the diode was to prevent the interior lights from coming on when you turn on your parking lights?

i thought the diode was to prevent the interior lights from coming on when you turn on your parking lights?
You know, I think you're right. But I don't really know for sure since I tapped into my footwell lights. Sorry. :(

i thought the diode was to prevent the interior lights from coming on when you turn on your parking lights?
You are right sir. When you open the doors all parking lights will turn on including your tail lights. That's explain the over load on the diode(s) (I used two 3 Amp) and they got very hot. Keep your doors open for few minutes and then try to touch the diode(s)! Very hot... I remodified it and connected my AE to the alarm... doesn't fade but blinks.

:)

I *LOVE* it. Will be doing this mod next :D

Me too. It may be an old thead, but this mod rocks! :buttrock

You are right sir. When you open the doors all parking lights will turn on including your tail lights. That's explain the over load on the diode(s) (I used two 3 Amp) and they got very hot. Keep your doors open for few minutes and then try to touch the diode(s)! Very hot... I remodified it and connected my AE to the alarm... doesn't fade but blinks.

Whoa I have the same prob..could it be the year of production :confused
I already had them previously wired to blink...didn't like it.
Ran into problems though
1. For some reason once the car is unlocked the lights(interior included) does not fade one but instead just turns on. Fade off works fine.
2. After a insect encounter(giant beetle attack!) my alarm refuses to arm and instead goes into panic mode when I try to arm(fade off).

I think the diode may have been overloaded and caused something with the alarm? Dunno exactly but I'm gonna try to do it again.

Any harm in using larger diodes...ran a 4A and it got hot...how bout like a 10A?

PS when the mod did work I loved it...damn beetle attack
Rich

Props for the write up!!!!!!!! :buttrock :buttrock :buttrock

Has anyone tried this mod with a Plug in Play Head Light/Angel Eye replacement? I have a wiring harness the wires into my corner lights which powers the angel eyes. I did this DIY exactly as explained and the angel eyes do not light up. I check to make sure the diode is in the proper position and checked all my connections.Does it matter that the Angel Eyes are LED?

Has anyone tried this mod with a Plug in Play Head Light/Angel Eye replacement? I have a wiring harness the wires into my corner lights which powers the angel eyes. I did this DIY exactly as explained and the angel eyes do not light up. I check to make sure the diode is in the proper position and checked all my connections.Does it matter that the Angel Eyes are LED?
Hmm, I know for sure that LEDs wouldn't fade on/off. But as far as them not lighting, not sure about that one. Sorry. :(

Hmm, I know for sure that LEDs wouldn't fade on/off. But as far as them not lighting, not sure about that one. Sorry.
Do you know if the parking lights are suppose to come on with the angel eyes? I am not getting any light from both the parking light or the angel eyes when the interior lights are on. I have check and re checked my wiring and it is the way it was explained. I even tried a single side at a time, but still no light. The power that I am tapping is functional, as it lights the footwell light when plugged in. Do you have any suggestions to try? Very good write up by the way, great detailed pictures. Thanks in advance for any help.

Nice write up. The only problem i have is the use of t-taps and butt connectors. They are the worse kind of connections you can make. I installed car audio for circuit city for three year and lost count on how many best buy installs i had to fix where those type of connections where used. I recommend solider and tape or shrink wrap for any connection in a car.

Finally got things to work somewhat. Since there was prewiring done i don't know how to restore the fade on effect but the fade off works.
Since all lights come one when the door opens(dome, rear, foot, tails) I used 2 6A diodes...Zero heat and I'm not using any T taps or clips just hard wiring them for max connectivity.

I also experienced a problem with my fuse blowing once but things seem fine now.

I love this mod and it attracts alot of attention at night :)

Do you know if the parking lights are suppose to come on with the angel eyes? I am not getting any light from both the parking light or the angel eyes when the interior lights are on. I have check and re checked my wiring and it is the way it was explained. I even tried a single side at a time, but still no light. The power that I am tapping is functional, as it lights the footwell light when plugged in. Do you have any suggestions to try? Very good write up by the way, great detailed pictures. Thanks in advance for any help.

It depends on how you wired them up. I disabled the corner lights from coming on when I hit my parking lights. Couldn't stand that ugly color messing up the angel eyes. But yes, they SHOULD come on if you wired them that way. Not 100% sure though.

Nice write up. The only problem i have is the use of t-taps and butt connectors. They are the worse kind of connections you can make. I installed car audio for circuit city for three year and lost count on how many best buy installs i had to fix where those type of connections where used. I recommend solider and tape or shrink wrap for any connection in a car.

I agree to a certain extent. If you do it properly it shouldn't be an issue. But yes, soldering is much better.

Finally got things to work somewhat. Since there was prewiring done i don't know how to restore the fade on effect but the fade off works.
Since all lights come one when the door opens(dome, rear, foot, tails) I used 2 6A diodes...Zero heat and I'm not using any T taps or clips just hard wiring them for max connectivity.

I also experienced a problem with my fuse blowing once but things seem fine now.

I love this mod and it attracts alot of attention at night :)

:buttrock

Wow this is old..

I want to do this. Will this make my angle eyes come on during the day? Or just when I unlock the car?

What will they turn back off once I start driving if they dont stay on all the time?

Let me know

Wow this is old..

I want to do this. Will this make my angle eyes come on during the day? Or just when I unlock the car?

What will they turn back off once I start driving if they dont stay on all the time?

Let me know
Why would it come on during the day? Do you mean on it's own? Or when you unlock your door (disarm your car)? These are just like your interior dome lights. So whenever they're on, your angel eyes will be on. If they're off, your rings will be off. ;)

Why would it come on during the day? Do you mean on it's own? Or when you unlock your door (disarm your car)? These are just like your interior dome lights. So whenever they're on, your angel eyes will be on. If they're off, your rings will be off. ;)

So if I wire it up correctly I can turn turn my interior lights off and the AE's wont turn on/off when I open the door right? or will the AE's still turn on/off even if the interior lights are switched off?

So if I wire it up correctly I can turn turn my interior lights off and the AE's wont turn on/off when I open the door right? or will the AE's still turn on/off even if the interior lights are switched off?
I believe so. But you'd have to use a diode to prevent your rings from turning on whenever you open your door.

So I just finished this and my passenger lights (angle eyes) wont turn on..

Everything is perfect. The drivers sides works perfect just like it should. All connections are good, all wires are correct.

I even went and pulled the passenger side marker bulb to check the wire to see if is the same under the dash. Again all good there..

I really want this to work as I never get to see my angle eyes!

any clue?

don't want to wait a week for this :(

you should put the polarity of the diode on the lil color schematic you have for those who are electrically challenged.

So I just finished this and my passenger lights (angle eyes) wont turn on..

Everything is perfect. The drivers sides works perfect just like it should. All connections are good, all wires are correct.

I even went and pulled the passenger side marker bulb to check the wire to see if is the same under the dash. Again all good there..

I really want this to work as I never get to see my angle eyes!
Did you check to see if ALL your other lights are working as they should? I think mine are both out now (well, they don't turn on with the remote anymore :( ). But, if I use the parking light switch, it's fine. Haven't really figured it out yet but I'm sure something's wrong...

you should put the polarity of the diode on the lil color schematic you have for those who are electrically challenged.
Did you check to see if ALL your other lights are working as they should? I think mine are both out now (well, they don't turn on with the remote anymore :( ). But, if I use the parking light switch, it's fine. Haven't really figured it out yet but I'm sure something's wrong...

you should put the polarity of the diode on the lil color schematic you have for those who are electrically challenged.
I would but it's not really my diagram. Someone else submitted it and I just posted it in the first thread. Sorry. But that's a good idea though. ;)