Table of Contents
Installing a Rigid Industries 50” light bar can enhance your vehicle’s visibility and style. This guide will walk you through the installation process, outline potential power gains, and provide a cost breakdown.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Rigid Industries 50” light bar
- Wiring harness
- Switch
- Mounting brackets
- Drill and drill bits
- Socket set
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Safety glasses
Step 1: Planning the Installation
Before beginning the installation, identify the location where you want to mount the light bar. Common locations include the roof, front bumper, or grille. Ensure that the area is clear of obstructions and that the light bar has adequate clearance.
Step 2: Mounting the Light Bar
Using the mounting brackets, position the light bar at your chosen location. Mark the drilling spots through the bracket holes. Ensure the light bar is level and straight before drilling.
Drilling the Holes
Put on your safety glasses and drill holes at the marked spots. Make sure to use a drill bit suitable for the material of your vehicle. Clean any debris from the drilled holes.
Securing the Light Bar
Attach the light bar to the mounting brackets using the provided bolts and nuts. Tighten them securely to ensure the light bar is stable and won’t move while driving.
Step 3: Wiring the Light Bar
Next, you will need to wire the light bar to your vehicle’s electrical system. Use the wiring harness that came with the light bar for this process.
Connecting the Wiring Harness
Connect the wiring harness to the light bar. Ensure that the positive and negative wires are connected correctly. Use wire strippers to expose the ends of the wires if necessary.
Routing the Wires
Route the wiring harness through the vehicle to the battery. Avoid areas where the wires could be pinched or damaged. Use electrical tape to secure the wires along the way to prevent movement.
Connecting to the Battery
Connect the positive wire to the positive terminal of the battery and the negative wire to the negative terminal. Be cautious and ensure the vehicle is turned off during this process.
Step 4: Installing the Switch
The switch allows you to control the light bar from inside the vehicle. Choose a convenient location for the switch, such as on the dashboard or near the steering wheel.
Mounting the Switch
Drill a small hole for the switch if necessary and secure it in place. Make sure it is easily accessible while driving.
Wiring the Switch
Connect the switch to the wiring harness according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves connecting two wires from the switch to the harness.
Step 5: Testing the Light Bar
Once everything is connected, it’s time to test the light bar. Start your vehicle and flip the switch to ensure the light bar turns on and functions correctly. If it does not light up, double-check your connections.
Power Gains and Benefits
Installing a Rigid Industries 50” light bar can provide several benefits beyond just improved visibility. Here are some potential gains:
- Enhanced night driving visibility
- Improved safety during off-road adventures
- Increased aesthetic appeal of the vehicle
- Potentially higher resale value due to added features
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the costs involved can help you budget for the installation. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Rigid Industries 50” light bar: $500 – $800
- Wiring harness: $30 – $50
- Switch: $10 – $20
- Mounting brackets: $20 – $40
- Miscellaneous tools and materials: $50 – $100
Overall, the total cost for installing a Rigid Industries 50” light bar can range from approximately $600 to $1,100, depending on the specific products and tools you choose.
Conclusion
Installing a Rigid Industries 50” light bar is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your vehicle’s functionality and appearance. By following these steps and understanding the costs involved, you can make an informed decision about your upgrade.