Light bar questions

[TRKDAYJNKE]

I did a few searches but did not find a solid answer for a few questions. Im interested in putting a 40" light bar on. I know its popular to put it behind the lower part of the grille. What I am wondering is how much light you lose to diffusion from being behind the grille. Also if it poses any cooling reduction by blocking the radiator. Is it in front of the tranny cooler? Thanks in advance.

 

[AlternativeOffroad]

You do lose some light, but there's no definite number. I've heard 20% all the way up to 45%. I believe the 20% though, but no issues so far with cooling or anything. PM us we have a ton of options for behind the grille!

 

[MandR Automotive]

It does not have any concerns towards the cooling system and you just loose a little. 15000 lumens is plenty. Check out our site for pictures and videos

 

[BlueSVT]

I believe a member on here posted his findings using a LUX meter... He saw a measured 40% loss in output, if I'm remembering correctly.

Keep in mind, that's just an average joe, testing with his own meter at home... Accuracy could vary.

 

[Squatting Dog]

I agree... After having a 40" led behind the grill and roof mounted... The roof mounted far exceeds the behind grill mounted hands down..

-Greg (aka squatting dog)

 

[Yukon Joe]

Yes you loses light output, but there are some other distinct advantages to mounting it behind the grill.
1) it looks bad a$$
2) stealth mode, it is hidden from LEO if they are not legal in your state.
3) protection, from both road hazards and theft.
4) extremely easy to mounting and wiring.

Do you lose light out put? Yes! Probably more than you'd like, BUT you are considering this mounting scheme for other reasons...

Yukon Joe
Buffalo Run Support Raptor
http://www.fordraptorforum.com/showthread.php?p=364119

 

[TRKDAYJNKE]

Damn! 20-40%, thats a lot in my opinion. If I am paying that much for a light I want 100% use of it. Behind the grille does look bad ass though. For me though, looks like Ill be getting a light bar or bumper.

 

[Raptor911]

Not to hijack this post but I am not sure why a vendor has not come up with a new grill with a cut out for an led bar.

 

[BlueSVT]

I've seen Outlaw cut the honeycomb, and replace with mesh... But it was a custom job at customers request.

 

[AlternativeOffroad]

Why not put something crazy like the 21" VisionX Kit down in the lower grill then? You don't have to do any aftermarket bumper or anything, it'll mount right in that spot, and you can still get somewhere around 17,600 lumens for a 20" bar.. and you don't lose anything due to the grille!

Or you could do the Baja Designs Squadron Fog Light kit, and get 14,400 lumens and be able to aim them accordingly.. Like I said there's tons of options for you! Call me and we can discuss