TL: AMP'D LED Emblem DIY and Review
#1
AMP'D LED Emblem DIY and Review
I hope I'm posting in the right place...I know it's a 3G but thought maybe other's would be interested in this.
First off, I was a little up in the air on this mod...100 bucks...nobody here had tried it...and from the pics even the white LED one looked a bit blue. Long story short...I had broken my factory rear emblem the first time I ever took it off and I dealt with having a crack on it and would double sided tape it in 2 sections when I would do something to it. GHETTO...so this mod pushed me over the edge. IIRC, the oem emblem was gonna run me 40 something bucks...
The stars aligned and Amp'd gave us a discount. So at $80ish (give or take with shipping, discount and FL tax) it was worth the risk. Before I move onto the DIY and pics...let me tell you...this is not what I expected. In that, my expectations were far exceeded. I thought..."well, I'll give it a shot...if it sucks I'll just disconnect 1 wire and the emblem looks factory when not lit". Boy was I wrong. I am in love with this. It's so subtle...people will have to do a double take to realize that it's lit and wonder whether or not that's something factory. It matches my LED license plate lights perfectly (among all the other LED's on the car)...shipped quickly and was very well packed...the owner of amp'd was really cool and communicated when it was shipped and answered all questions willingly. Long story short, I'm pleased...very pleased and I'm glad I decided to be one of the first to give this a shot.
PS...keep in mind...my DIY is quick and painless, to keep in theme with the install.
Take off your trunk liner (or just the ones at the outer most edge to allow you to pull it back). Use fishing line to "saw" off your old emblem and take this opportunity to clean/buff and wax that area without an emblem on it (especially since your new LED's will be illuminating that area. I did NOT diy these 2 things because they've been covered so many times it'd be redundant.
Ok onto pics:
Here is the package thta arrived, look how well and safely it's packaged...and obviously, you're getting a modified REAL DEAL Acura Emblem...not a knockoff!
Ok...so here is the old emblem removed (you can see my handywork with my own doublesided tape...
decided this would be a good time to whip out my new PC7424 and Megs105 and hit the eblem area...I'm getting better...but not perfect yet.
BEFORE
AFTER
Ok, now with the liner off or pulled back...you can peek into where either side of the license bulbs go and see the inside holes from the emblem holder. (go ahead and disconnect one of the sides to prepare for wiring)
Here are the wires pulled thru
and here are the OEM red and black wires you'll be t'tapping to turn on the emblem
T-Taps...if you don't know how to use them. Just take a deep breath...and take a good look at them, it's simple.
and here they are tapped onto the oem wires of 1 side of the license plate lights.
AND HERE, friends...is the magic.
PLUG license light back into harness...at this point it's working so you can put everything back in and on.
And here it is...I included some black and white and sepia so you can get a better idea of how it looks. It is much amplified in the pics and looks much more blue. Trust me...this thing looks classy. I wouldn't be surprised if cars start doing this from the factory in the future as you can already see they are exploring the use of LED technology.
AMP'D...thanks for a great deal and a great product. I am a happy dude...
KILLER!
3
TOTALLY STOCK LOOKING!
and from a distance and not in the garage...ALMOST forgot to take the painter's tape off.
Those that know me personally...know that I eat my chili alone...and I've never been a fan of my Uncle Ben, if you know what I mean. I honest to goodness think it adds a touch of interest without being "over the top". A far cry from the glow in the dark and United Colors of Benneton Honda Emblems of the past. Constructive criticism is welcome...bashing is not. You think it's great, share why...you think it sucks...do the same!
Thank you,
rockstar
First off, I was a little up in the air on this mod...100 bucks...nobody here had tried it...and from the pics even the white LED one looked a bit blue. Long story short...I had broken my factory rear emblem the first time I ever took it off and I dealt with having a crack on it and would double sided tape it in 2 sections when I would do something to it. GHETTO...so this mod pushed me over the edge. IIRC, the oem emblem was gonna run me 40 something bucks...
The stars aligned and Amp'd gave us a discount. So at $80ish (give or take with shipping, discount and FL tax) it was worth the risk. Before I move onto the DIY and pics...let me tell you...this is not what I expected. In that, my expectations were far exceeded. I thought..."well, I'll give it a shot...if it sucks I'll just disconnect 1 wire and the emblem looks factory when not lit". Boy was I wrong. I am in love with this. It's so subtle...people will have to do a double take to realize that it's lit and wonder whether or not that's something factory. It matches my LED license plate lights perfectly (among all the other LED's on the car)...shipped quickly and was very well packed...the owner of amp'd was really cool and communicated when it was shipped and answered all questions willingly. Long story short, I'm pleased...very pleased and I'm glad I decided to be one of the first to give this a shot.
PS...keep in mind...my DIY is quick and painless, to keep in theme with the install.
Take off your trunk liner (or just the ones at the outer most edge to allow you to pull it back). Use fishing line to "saw" off your old emblem and take this opportunity to clean/buff and wax that area without an emblem on it (especially since your new LED's will be illuminating that area. I did NOT diy these 2 things because they've been covered so many times it'd be redundant.
Ok onto pics:
Here is the package thta arrived, look how well and safely it's packaged...and obviously, you're getting a modified REAL DEAL Acura Emblem...not a knockoff!
Ok...so here is the old emblem removed (you can see my handywork with my own doublesided tape...
decided this would be a good time to whip out my new PC7424 and Megs105 and hit the eblem area...I'm getting better...but not perfect yet.
BEFORE
AFTER
Ok, now with the liner off or pulled back...you can peek into where either side of the license bulbs go and see the inside holes from the emblem holder. (go ahead and disconnect one of the sides to prepare for wiring)
Here are the wires pulled thru
and here are the OEM red and black wires you'll be t'tapping to turn on the emblem
T-Taps...if you don't know how to use them. Just take a deep breath...and take a good look at them, it's simple.
and here they are tapped onto the oem wires of 1 side of the license plate lights.
AND HERE, friends...is the magic.
PLUG license light back into harness...at this point it's working so you can put everything back in and on.
And here it is...I included some black and white and sepia so you can get a better idea of how it looks. It is much amplified in the pics and looks much more blue. Trust me...this thing looks classy. I wouldn't be surprised if cars start doing this from the factory in the future as you can already see they are exploring the use of LED technology.
AMP'D...thanks for a great deal and a great product. I am a happy dude...
KILLER!
3
TOTALLY STOCK LOOKING!
and from a distance and not in the garage...ALMOST forgot to take the painter's tape off.
Those that know me personally...know that I eat my chili alone...and I've never been a fan of my Uncle Ben, if you know what I mean. I honest to goodness think it adds a touch of interest without being "over the top". A far cry from the glow in the dark and United Colors of Benneton Honda Emblems of the past. Constructive criticism is welcome...bashing is not. You think it's great, share why...you think it sucks...do the same!
Thank you,
rockstar
Last edited by Bearcat94; 09-25-2010 at 01:33 PM.
#4
Thanks for the suggestion.
If you look at the underside pic of the emblem, it's just LED's under the A...that part illuminates the circle from the inside...so the light is very contained...and doesn't shine outside the emblem...which I think is probably what I like.
If you look at the underside pic of the emblem, it's just LED's under the A...that part illuminates the circle from the inside...so the light is very contained...and doesn't shine outside the emblem...which I think is probably what I like.
#6
Ok...try this...just as easy...take 2 index fingers and place over license plate portion of picture on the computer screen...what you are left with is what you are requesting. Just the amp'd emblem.
PS...I'd LOVE to see it on you CL. This mod looks classy man, trust me!
PS...I'd LOVE to see it on you CL. This mod looks classy man, trust me!
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#8
Drifting
iTrader: (13)
rockstar---that looks effing great! I KNEW this could be done and look good. Thanks for being the first. Love the new avatar, too!
My GF just got the Honda H for her Accord. Once I get it installed, I will post pics.
I have to second the opinion on Amp'd Emblems customer service. Steve is prompt, courteous and has the right answer every time. I look forward to seeing his work in person (the H emblem) and working with him to make his product fit my vision for my car.
My GF just got the Honda H for her Accord. Once I get it installed, I will post pics.
I have to second the opinion on Amp'd Emblems customer service. Steve is prompt, courteous and has the right answer every time. I look forward to seeing his work in person (the H emblem) and working with him to make his product fit my vision for my car.
#9
Team Owner
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Great job Rockstar. It looks outstanding.
#13
Not at all Steve, go for it! PS...it just dawned on me...it looks like the emblem during the day, but at night...like it's illuminated but subtle enough for you to wonder why and not think it's got LED's under it. It's just perfect.
Thanks for all the compliments and comments guys and gals. Glad I could be of assistance and a guinea pig! Much appreciated! db...looking forward to seeing how the honda one works out for your gf! I'm sure she'll be happy.
Guys, if you're thinking about this, honestly...if you're iffy...once you do it you'll be pleasantly surprised when you see it on YOUR car, in person.
^^^comment above mine...Thanks, I think?!
Thanks for all the compliments and comments guys and gals. Glad I could be of assistance and a guinea pig! Much appreciated! db...looking forward to seeing how the honda one works out for your gf! I'm sure she'll be happy.
Guys, if you're thinking about this, honestly...if you're iffy...once you do it you'll be pleasantly surprised when you see it on YOUR car, in person.
^^^comment above mine...Thanks, I think?!
#14
Senior Moderator
Regional Coordinator
(Mid-Atlantic)
Regional Coordinator
(Mid-Atlantic)
iTrader: (6)
Looks awesome, I really like this mod
#17
Sorry, forgot to respond to this. NO, the local dealer won't have it. You'd have to purchase from Steve at amp'd. What I was getting at is it's classy enough that I wouldn't be surprised if something like this surfaces in the near future as a factory feature. Brand recognition at night...I bet some execs would bite!
#18
As promised Youtube video. Steve, go nuts!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rjg_1JC2-8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rjg_1JC2-8
#23
Hmmm...any idea of our emblems are interchangeable. If you take some measurements of the size of your emblem and maybe a picture of it from the side (profile of the way it sits on the trunk) I can tell you if this would work.
OR...someone on here might already know!
OR...someone on here might already know!
#25
Hey Cuongsayz,
The CL might work. It has the pins so that's good. It's all about the dimensions. As Rockstar suggested. Send me the dimensions and I will let you know. The thickness of the emblem as well.
Do a google search and contact me at the website, or get it from someone here that knows how to contact me, as I am not yet a vendor (waiting for Astro to contact me) and can't advertise on here until then.
Thanks,
Ampd
The CL might work. It has the pins so that's good. It's all about the dimensions. As Rockstar suggested. Send me the dimensions and I will let you know. The thickness of the emblem as well.
Do a google search and contact me at the website, or get it from someone here that knows how to contact me, as I am not yet a vendor (waiting for Astro to contact me) and can't advertise on here until then.
Thanks,
Ampd
#26
Just did some basic research on Edmunds and the only issue I see is that you will need the extended wire kit (see the website FAQs) because the license plate is below the trunk lid. The dimensions look OK...but I can't be 100% until I receive actual measurements.
Hope that helps.
Hope that helps.
#28
No....allllll of the emblems sit flush to the car. The design (patent pending) of the Amp'd Emblem allows the light to do it's thing. I saw a CL today. I am fairly certain it will not be a problem. If you are interested, contact me at the website contact page.
Thanks,
Ampd
Thanks,
Ampd
#31
Wait...I just blacked out
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Gainesville Florida
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I love this mod, but I'm confused....
Is it just 80 dollars for LEDs mounted behind a stock emblem? Or is the emblem itself different as well?
Is it just 80 dollars for LEDs mounted behind a stock emblem? Or is the emblem itself different as well?
#32
Hey Evan,
Rockyfeller and Rockstar143 both have one. I will let them tell you what they think. Unfortunately, a thread with some great comments...has been closed by AZ.
Guys....a little help here please?
Thanks,
Ampd
Rockyfeller and Rockstar143 both have one. I will let them tell you what they think. Unfortunately, a thread with some great comments...has been closed by AZ.
Guys....a little help here please?
Thanks,
Ampd
#33
Just an emblem with LEDs behind it??
Also Evan, I see that you are soon to become a lawyer and therefore understand the concept intellectual property law. For those of us that are not studying law...here is a useful definition from WIKI.
Patent. a patent provides the right to exclude others[13] from making, using, selling, offering for sale, or importing the patented invention for the term of the patent, which is usually 20 years from the filing date [3] subject to the payment of maintenance fees. A patent is, in effect, a limited property right that the government offers to inventors in exchange for their agreement to share the details of their inventions with the public
Patent. a patent provides the right to exclude others[13] from making, using, selling, offering for sale, or importing the patented invention for the term of the patent, which is usually 20 years from the filing date [3] subject to the payment of maintenance fees. A patent is, in effect, a limited property right that the government offers to inventors in exchange for their agreement to share the details of their inventions with the public
#34
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Ampd, I'm not sure if you are trying suggest that I am in any civil violation of asking what makes this LED emblem any different than gluing LEDs behind a stock emblem. I also hope you don't expect to sue and/or get any settlement if people start modifying their own emblems with LEDs behind them.
There is also nothing wrong with asking what makes this product different than just having LEDs behind a stock emblem. You're allowed to not tell me, but I'm also allowed to ask.
That being said, if someone does want to answer my question, it would intrigue me to buy this modification. But it's tough to buy until I see something that sets this apart from a generic project.
Thanks!
There is also nothing wrong with asking what makes this product different than just having LEDs behind a stock emblem. You're allowed to not tell me, but I'm also allowed to ask.
That being said, if someone does want to answer my question, it would intrigue me to buy this modification. But it's tough to buy until I see something that sets this apart from a generic project.
Thanks!
#35
Steve, great to have you back, man...
Evan, yes, these are 4 LED's wired behind the emblem that allow light to be classily emitted from the A portion of the emblem. I hightly doubt Steve (amp'd) was suggesting what you responded above, probably just reiterating that he has a patent pending on it so he would make the distinction between him and someone charging you 80 bucks for a "hack job" of an emblem.
If you look at the pics, it does include a NEW factory Acura Emblem professional looking and packaged and prewired with the LED's secured safely in inside the emblem.
To the other CL guys...the emblem for us does sit flush, but the tiny space gap that the double sided tape on the outside of the emblem provides, is enough to emit the light so you can see the A from a distance. Check out the youtube and closeup shots above! It is sick, guys. I really love it.
Evan, yes, these are 4 LED's wired behind the emblem that allow light to be classily emitted from the A portion of the emblem. I hightly doubt Steve (amp'd) was suggesting what you responded above, probably just reiterating that he has a patent pending on it so he would make the distinction between him and someone charging you 80 bucks for a "hack job" of an emblem.
If you look at the pics, it does include a NEW factory Acura Emblem professional looking and packaged and prewired with the LED's secured safely in inside the emblem.
To the other CL guys...the emblem for us does sit flush, but the tiny space gap that the double sided tape on the outside of the emblem provides, is enough to emit the light so you can see the A from a distance. Check out the youtube and closeup shots above! It is sick, guys. I really love it.
#36
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Rockstar,
appreciate the response, that's all I was really looking for. That being said, the mod/craftsmanship looks great, no denying it!
appreciate the response, that's all I was really looking for. That being said, the mod/craftsmanship looks great, no denying it!
#37
Thanks Rockstar!
Still waiting on a reply from Astro about vendor status. Thanks as always for the great replys.
Evan, yes, I never implied that asking was in any violation. As you probably can see from Rockstar's DIY pics, the visual is there. But, yes, it is totally within Patent Law to go after someone that does violate a Patent. Use, Make, or Sell.
I do appreciate your interest. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at the website address. I will be glad to anwer any questions you might have.
Thanks,
Ampd
Still waiting on a reply from Astro about vendor status. Thanks as always for the great replys.
Evan, yes, I never implied that asking was in any violation. As you probably can see from Rockstar's DIY pics, the visual is there. But, yes, it is totally within Patent Law to go after someone that does violate a Patent. Use, Make, or Sell.
I do appreciate your interest. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at the website address. I will be glad to anwer any questions you might have.
Thanks,
Ampd
#38
Vendor Status Now Active for Amp'd Emblems
Hey Guys,
Amp'd Emblems is now an official AZ sponsor! We can now advertise, sell, etc. For all of you that were interested in an Amp'd Emblem, and sent me messages or posts about buying, I can now provide you with assistance and information. For all of you that have expressed interest, support, and quality posts, thank you!
Special thanks go out to Rockstar143, for his very impressive DIY and YOUTUBE video, and to Rockyfeller for his detailed posts after his install. Thanks to both of you for being the AZ "guinea pigs." I'm glad you both like them.
Sincerely,
Ampd
Amp'd Emblems is now an official AZ sponsor! We can now advertise, sell, etc. For all of you that were interested in an Amp'd Emblem, and sent me messages or posts about buying, I can now provide you with assistance and information. For all of you that have expressed interest, support, and quality posts, thank you!
Special thanks go out to Rockstar143, for his very impressive DIY and YOUTUBE video, and to Rockyfeller for his detailed posts after his install. Thanks to both of you for being the AZ "guinea pigs." I'm glad you both like them.
Sincerely,
Ampd
#40
Thanks DWB,
The girl's Honda is going to be in the mail in about an hour. 2 boxes.
Hope she likes it!
The girl's Honda is going to be in the mail in about an hour. 2 boxes.
Hope she likes it!