Light BarsChances are great that you have seen or been in the presence of a modified truck in the past few years. If this is the case, that truck most likely had a lot of light bars on the front. 

But before you run out to buy light bars, you should know what they are, how to mount and wire them, and how long they’re expected to last. Continue reading below to learn more about this very popular aftermarket add-on to trucks.

What is a Light Bar?

A light bar, normally, mounts onto the roof of a truck to help provide additional lighting. Those who drive modified trucks like to go off-roading or drive in darker hours and on unlit roads, so having light bars for trucks installed can make these endeavors much easier. In the past, those who wished to drive their trucks in unlit space would just install headlights on top of headlights until they got the result they wanted. 

Soon enough,LED light bars hit the market and grabbed the attention of truck drivers and off-road enthusiasts as they provide an outstanding amount of light in comparison to other light bars, and require a much smaller amount of power. They also work at lower temperatures than halogen and have proven to be very reliable. First, the problem with LED was its high cost, but the cost has dropped significantly in recent years as a lot of affordable options are offered.

What to Consider Before Buying One

LED

Before going out to purchase a light bar, ask yourself what your goal is. Is it to go camping, off-roading, or do other activities during the dark.

Your number one consideration should be to compare the light output in lumens from one bar to another to see how far they reach. Then look for the highest lumen bar that works well with your budget. If you’re just looking for a cool add-on, then you should consider packaging size and style and plan where to mount it as this determines the size you’ll need.

If you need a light bar for work, then you have different needs. Search for waterproof housing to protect the vehicle’s internal parts from heavy-duty work and any harsh weather that you may encounter.

Light Bar Options

In terms of size, some light bars are 4 feet wide, allowing them to be mounted anywhere while others are 5 feet wide so they can be mounted on the roof.

Having the light bars change colors is also important to truck drivers, and luckily there is a variety of colors you can choose from, which also serve a real purpose at a job site. There are smartphone apps that allow you to have control of the light bar through Bluetooth which is a great feature to have when you’re outside the truck and need to turn the light on or off.

When buying your light bar, check it to see what it comes with. Some offer a kit with mounting brackets, bolts, a switch, a relay, nuts, and wiring which is always good to have.

Light Bar Installation

Light Bar Installation

Basic tools are needed to install a light bar, meaning a good socket and ratchet set, extension, and a hex key. A drill is also useful to have in case you’re making your own mount in a bumper.

If you don’t have the necessary instructions, first of all, you should make sure to stay safe and disconnect the battery before working on the electrical systems. Next, unravel the wiring harness and lay it in the engine bay. Approximate where you want the wiring to stand. Decide where you want the light bar and make sure it’s centered before drilling.

Drill holes and put the bolts in and ensure that everything is properly connected. Connect the negative and positive wires to the light bar, pass it through the firewall and connect to the on/off switch. Wire up the light bar and check your work by reconnecting the battery and testing out the light bar.

Final Words

Light bars have come out to be the most perfect solution for drivers facing major problems on the road and offer a lot of light for a small price, little power, and hassle, and not needing a heavy-duty headache rack to attach halogen lights. This is why light bars are used massively as they’re cost-effective and practical.