[quote name='968gene' post='45279' date='Jan 5 2008, 06:56 AM']I did a quick search of the 'net to see if there were any Corvette owners out there that have tackled the 3rd brake light LED conversion. I'm guessing that the 968 3rd brake light originating with the Corvette is an urban legend. It appears that Chevrolet has had the 3rd brake light integrated with the bumper since the Vette returned in 1986 (via ASC). I noticed on the ASC web page that ASC also did the Buick Reatta in 1990. The Reatta 3rd light looks familiar. Does anyone have additional information? If the 968 light comes from the Reatta, there is less chance that there are custom LED conversions out there.[/quote]
The mod is one of the easiest electrical mods on the 968. All you need are simple tools that you can borrow or get from Radio Shack.
The part to pay attention to is that you are soldering in the LEDs in the correct direction. They have an "in" and an "out", if you will, and will not light up if soldered in the wrong way. I had a spare 12volt battery in the garage, so I tested the led placement before I installed it into the lens. Saved time as I screwed up 2 of the LEDs.
You can unsolder the wrong ones and turn them around and solder them right back in. Putting them in backwards does not damage them. If you look into the clear plastic body of the LED you will see that there is a difference in the shape of the metal pieces inside; figure out one and copy.
Even if you have never soldered, this project is very easy for a first-timer.
It will take you more time to remove and replace the assembly than to drill the holes and solder in the parts. Don't forget the resister. You need to get the exact value and wattage to avoid problems.
Brian
