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Flashlight mount and other off the grid mods?

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by SouthPaw, Nov 10, 2019.

  1. Nov 10, 2019 at 6:48 PM
    #1
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    I searched and didn’t find what I was looking for. I’m looking at mounting a flashlight inside the truck somewhere. Has anyone done this before? Looking to mount one possibly in the center console, with it wired in to charge when it’s mounted.

    I’d also be interested in seeing other mods you guys have done along these lines. Light bars, gun mounts, dash cams etc.
     
    Last edited: Nov 10, 2019
    KarmaKannon and TRD-tv like this.
  2. Nov 10, 2019 at 8:53 PM
    #2
    KarmaKannon

    KarmaKannon Master of None

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    Sounds like a good idea to me. Wouldn't work with my lights because they have 18650 batteries that charge outside the light. Right now I'm trying to figure out a mount for my Kenwood vhf radio and some way to mount a small, maybe 7.5" barrel AR or AK (truck gun). The center consoles on these things leaves much to be desired. I'm honestly pondering making a completely new one with a big compartment.
     
  3. Nov 11, 2019 at 4:33 AM
    #3
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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    Couple of observations peppered with anecdotal evidence. I believe in KISS.

    1) These new mini LED flashlights powered by AAA and AA batteries put out a ton of light. I have a couple that I keep. There is one in the truck console in particular that does most everything needed from inside the cab to shining up at coons in the tall trees. Its about the size of two rolls of quarters lined up.

    I wonder how a larger D battery flashlight would perform? Not sure, but see #2.

    2) I have a Milwaukee LED cube light that accepts many (made specific for) sizes of LithIon batteries. The cube has magnets on the base that allow it to stick to the truck just about anywhere. Its about 7”x7” in size. It will light up a Manhattan hand model runway for a very long period and has a swiveling head. It also has a tension clamp for holding.

    upload_2019-11-11_7-31-6.jpg

    3) You could tap off your cig lighter or pass side power outlets to do as you suggest in the console. Your storage space would be eaten up by a charger base and light.
     
  4. Nov 11, 2019 at 6:09 AM
    #4
    Green Thunder

    Green Thunder Smooth in the Cruise

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    My past few trucks I’ve mounted a MagLite D-size light at the bottom of the b-pillar. This keeps it out of my way, but is easy to reach. For this truck, I’m just going to leave a small LED light in the console.
     
  5. Nov 11, 2019 at 6:20 AM
    #5
    Darkness

    Darkness Allergic to white

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    I've had a D cell mag light under my seat for over 10 years, an early LED version. It stays just between the trans hump and the seat slider. With the new LED lights being so small I would probably just throw one in the glove box and another in the rear storage as backup.

    The trouble with it is if I'm alone and need to look in the engine bay it's very clumsy to prop up somewhere. The body is too smooth and between the shape and weight its tricky to prop. I also carry an LED craftsman work light with a magnet and hook on it for that reason, although that's usually in my VW because black Tundras don't break down.
    :muscleflexing:
     
  6. Nov 11, 2019 at 7:21 AM
    #6
    ZPMAN

    ZPMAN 2nd place is the 1st looser

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    Just received my phantom, https://phantomholsters.com/?gclid=...w3GT8B-HMIVF-78cZkySkmzzDJ3N8pThoCd3oQAvD_BwE making a secure bolt in mount for it. Also you might consider placing magnets behind dash for securing anything.
    https://www.tundras.com/threads/diy-phone-mount.12908/
     
  7. Nov 11, 2019 at 7:41 AM
    #7
    T-Rex266

    T-Rex266 Elon approved Staff Member

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    Edit idk if you can do this in 1st gen

    D0312F9D-B099-4CD3-AED3-2B547271BA90.jpg
     
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  8. Nov 11, 2019 at 7:59 AM
    #8
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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    Forgot to mention, I keep a LED AAA Battery headband light ($11) in the console as well. Doubles as a hand held and when needed can be a strap on for working the engine bay. Great for working the under chassis.
     
    Darkness[QUOTED] likes this.
  9. Nov 11, 2019 at 9:28 AM
    #9
    TRD-tv

    TRD-tv Menace2Ohio

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    Dude makes some great points. I keep my 3 cell mag lite in my door pocket cuz when I'm in the city beggars will come up to your window and their known for getting feisty. So if something happens I bank on being able to reach down like I'm grabbing change and swing like rodney king is at my window in one fluid motion. If I actually need light, my free harbor freight LED does a better job
     
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  10. Nov 11, 2019 at 9:46 AM
    #10
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    I have to admit, I may or may not have a flashlight fetish.. :spy:. I have more than I will ever need lol. I have a handful that use 18650's as well, some charge with a standard micro usb inside the flashlight and others the batteries need to removed.

    This is pretty much what I had mounted in my old 24V cummins. It was under the drivers seat and then I tapped in the 12v power supply to the charging station. Worked great for anytime that I needed it but I don't want to spend $125 for another streamlight for this project.

    The streamlight stinger is the best option but also the most expensive. It also is a bit too big for what I want.

    https://www.amazon.com/Streamlight-...513&sprefix=rechargeable+flash,aps,206&sr=8-7
     
    Last edited: Nov 11, 2019
    saybng likes this.
  11. Nov 11, 2019 at 10:23 AM
    #11
    ZPMAN

    ZPMAN 2nd place is the 1st looser

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    I use the Fenix PD35 tac because of the light pattern, brite and small size for work and home.
    20191111_120045.jpg

    I put another notch in the case (to reverse the clip)for my hat or hard hat.
    20191111_120150.jpg

    You can hold anything with magnets attached with velcro but do suggest using 1/16 " foam padding if it's not rubber covered with rubber like the phone.
    20191111_120338.jpg
     
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  12. Nov 11, 2019 at 11:18 AM
    #12
    Pudge

    Pudge Super Secret Elite Member #7

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    Wow those lights must be built well. I don't think I have ever seen a flashlight that has that much obvious use and wear to it. Those look heavily used. Idk why I'm so impressed by this lol. It's just every other light I see, including my own, all look brand new
     
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  13. Nov 11, 2019 at 1:16 PM
    #13
    FirstGenVol

    FirstGenVol Brake Czar

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    Fenix makes really good lights that are reasonably priced. I went through a flashlight phase so I have no shortage of sweet lights.
     
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  14. Nov 11, 2019 at 1:35 PM
    #14
    Cfincke

    Cfincke Mall Crawler but capable

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    I had a streamlight Strion mounted in my center console with the charger mounted in there. I dont have photos of it installed. I keep the Strion in my truck now and have a 2nd in the house with the charger. I will charge the inside one then switch them every 3 months or when needed. I also have a rechargeable led strip light in my truck and carry an Olight S1.
    I am looking at getting an Olight for the truck as well.
     
  15. Nov 11, 2019 at 8:09 PM
    #15
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Has anyone opened this up? Seems like a perfect spot to mount things assuming you can hide the wires. Looks like there is a lot of room under there. I’ve been looking at Amazon and some usb charging lights. Thinking about using a u clamp type of mount for something simple and easy. I’d be tapping into the factory 12v plug so the light only charges while I’m driving. Thoughts?


    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    Something like this to tap into the 12v plug on the passenger side and stuff behind the dash. I have an extra 10’ usb cable so I could run that under the carpet into the center console:

    [​IMG]

    This flashlight looks promising as its usb charging at the rear and has great reviews.
    WUBEN 1200 Lumens LED Flashlight USB Rechargeable (18650 Battery Included) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0779M5VHJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hhJYDbXAWWX9M

    Or this one:
    Rechargeable Flashlight, MOLAER Super Bright LED Tactical https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DSBQ6NQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_diJYDb878HZGG

    I like this one a lot but it would require a whole separate charger but would allow two batteries to charge at once:
    Flashlight, NICRON N7 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight, 90 Degree Mini Flashlight Ip65 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FFKJVT1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PiJYDbAGSGP02
     
    Last edited: Nov 11, 2019
  16. Nov 11, 2019 at 8:27 PM
    #16
    TundraDude18

    TundraDude18 Deus vult

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    I like that: and some of the other lights they make. Good to know.:thumbsup: Thanks!
     
  17. Nov 12, 2019 at 3:07 PM
    #17
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Learn something new every day... I had no idea this lid opened lmao. I was looking at and thinking 'why would they put such a big empty spot there?' Well now I know... lol.
     
  18. Nov 12, 2019 at 3:13 PM
    #18
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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    Good on ya. A little secret compartment is located under the cup holders on the center console. Grab and pinch the bridge between the two cup holders and pull straight up. The insert removal will reveal a small space for cards, cash, etc.
     
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  19. Nov 12, 2019 at 3:42 PM
    #19
    TundraDude18

    TundraDude18 Deus vult

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    I think you should change your moniker, @Professional Hand Model: I don't want to learn so many things from a hand model.

    Makes me feel weird.

    I'm going to the garage to do this now!:facepalm:
     
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  20. Nov 12, 2019 at 3:45 PM
    #20
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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    You should see how I make people feel in person when I tell them I’m a hand model.
     
  21. Nov 12, 2019 at 3:47 PM
    #21
    TundraDude18

    TundraDude18 Deus vult

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    :rofl:
     
  22. Nov 12, 2019 at 5:37 PM
    #22
    KarmaKannon

    KarmaKannon Master of None

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    I have a streamlight polytac that I really like for a budget friendly weapon light or handheld. They do have a model that has the USB for charging on the body. I didn't want to spend more for it, but it would be nice for vehicle use. Even on a rifle it would be cool to leave it plugged in so it's always tip top.
     
  23. Nov 12, 2019 at 5:42 PM
    #23
    Darkness

    Darkness Allergic to white

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    Fred doesn't fist bump, bad for the knuckles
    :fistbump:
     
  24. Nov 12, 2019 at 6:43 PM
    #24
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Good to know, I have a few things I can put in there.
     
  25. Nov 12, 2019 at 6:55 PM
    #25
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Well here is what I ended up with. I looked at the truck again and figured go back to the KISS method. Why run wires that aren’t really needed and I’d be better mounting it in a central location that is easy to access. It will also allow to me add an additional USB port. I’ll mount right at the bottom of the center dash, use a usb to 12v adapter and use the short usb cable to plug it right in. I bought a flashlight that had great reviews for $18. I didn’t want to go crazy with it as I’m not sure how it’s going to hold up to weather.

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]


    Also, for anyone else looking to do something similar, it took forever to find a universal flash light mount. I couldn’t search the right term but finally used “flashlight mounting brackets” and came across these.
    [​IMG]
     
  26. Nov 14, 2019 at 6:57 PM
    #26
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Got it mounted tonight. Originally I was going use two mounts but one does the trick. Now I have a few extra mounts to play with.

    [​IMG]
     
    Last edited: Nov 14, 2019
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  27. Nov 18, 2019 at 6:59 PM
    #27
    SouthPaw

    SouthPaw [OP] The headlight guy

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    Anyone mount an inverter inside the cab? I’m considering doing one to be able to have plug ins available just in case.
     
  28. Nov 22, 2019 at 6:58 PM
    #28
    tmac58star

    tmac58star New Member

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    I'm working on holder for a box of strike-anywhere kitchen matches...
     
  29. Nov 22, 2019 at 10:48 PM
    #29
    CodyP

    CodyP Such a n00b

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    :monocle: can't tell if serious or not...
     
  30. Nov 23, 2019 at 3:29 PM
    #30
    tmac58star

    tmac58star New Member

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    Can't decide between peel-n-stick velcro or stainless steel lag bolts...
     
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