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Baja Designs, a premium off-road lighting company, has just introduced a clever new accessory called the Reflex Actuator that enables you to aim off-road lights from a switch located inside your vehicle. True to its name, it’s essentially just a small 12-volt actuator you attach to a single pod or light bar, then connect a wiring harness to a switch, allowing you to adjust the lights vertically within a 20-degree range on the go.
Numerous modern trucks feature active headlight adjustment, or at least some range of adjustability, to ensure you maximize the performance of your lights. This is crucial because if you’re towing or transporting a significant amount of cargo or fuel, the rear of your truck may sag, causing your lights to point skyward. On the other hand, if you regulate your lights while your truck is loaded, they may not be optimally aligned when it’s empty. The variance can be more pronounced in smaller off-road vehicles and UTVs when they switch from full fuel loads to empty, especially if you engage in long-distance Baja-style racing.
These small actuators would actually simplify any light installation process. Rather than mounting a light and needing to take it down and remount it as you attempt to adjust it, using one of these devices would allow you to adjust from the comfort of your cab at any time.
This product is certainly specialized, but it is genuinely cool and inventive. And for accessory enthusiasts like me, it’s an exciting concept.
Baja Designs lights come with a hefty price tag but are highly regarded. I’ve actually never used them myself, but I frequently see them on high-quality vehicles. The new Reflex Actuators cost around $100 for a single light controller and $200 for one that can adjust a larger light bar. You can also acquire a wiring harness with a switch for $70 and the linking harness to sync multiple lights for $42.
Indeed, if you’re skilled, you could replicate this idea with an actuator from Temu and design your own controller. However, the plug-and-play aspect of these is very attractive.
The Reflex Actuators work with Baja Designs LP Series, XL Series, S8, and OnX6+ light bars. You could likely devise a little mount to fit them with lights from other brands, but it wouldn’t be as seamless.
When installed correctly, they’re intended to provide as much as 20 degrees of tilt and, as you would expect, multiple units can be connected together.
Here’s a quick promotional video featuring them:
And this video features some BD team members highlighting the benefits of the product along with additional insights on its development:
On the opposite end of the spectrum of light-mounting technology … I have a pair of old chrome police lights mounted on my 1975 Scout with farm gate hinges. I do not recommend this—they vibrate and wobble like diving boards and will be taken down when the truck emerges from hibernation this spring. Joking aside, I thoroughly appreciate this idea from BD and would gladly use these if I had Baja Designs lights on one of my vehicles.
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**New Device Empowers Drivers to Control Off-Road Lights from Inside the Vehicle**
In recent years, the off-roading community has experienced a wave of technological advancements aimed at enhancing the driving experience. One of the most recent innovations is a device that permits drivers to manage off-road lights directly from inside their vehicles. This change not only boosts convenience but also heightens safety and efficiency during nighttime explorations.
**Overview of the Device**
The new gadget typically integrates with a vehicle’s pre-existing electrical system and can be controlled via a dedicated interface or mobile application. This device allows drivers to activate or deactivate their off-road lights, modify brightness levels, and even switch among different lighting modes—all while remaining comfortably seated.
**Notable Features**
1. **Wireless Connectivity**: Many of these devices leverage Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology, ensuring effortless communication between the off-road lights and the control interface. This wireless aspect negates the necessity for bulky wiring and simplifies installation.
2. **Customizable Options**: Users can usually personalize their lighting settings, including intensity and light patterns. This capability is particularly advantageous for varying terrains and weather, ensuring optimal visibility.
3. **User-Friendly Design**: The control interfaces are crafted for simplicity, featuring intuitive designs that enable rapid adjustments. Mobile applications often provide additional features, such as preset settings for diverse off-road scenarios.
4. **Safety Features**: Some versions come with safety elements such as automatic shut-off timers to prevent battery drainage when the vehicle is not in operation. Additionally, certain devices can synchronize with other vehicle systems to alert users if the lights remain activated.
5. **Durability**: Designed to endure harsh conditions, these devices are frequently water-resistant and shockproof, ensuring they can withstand the challenges of off-road driving.
**Installation Process**
The installation of this device generally involves connecting it to the vehicle’s battery and integrating it with the existing lighting setup. Most manufacturers offer detailed installation guides, with many users opting for professional installation to guarantee optimal functionality.
**Advantages for Off-Road Fans**
1. **Enhanced Visibility**: With the capability to manage off-road lights from within the cabin, drivers can promptly adjust their lighting according to the terrain, improving visibility and safety during nighttime outings.
2. **Convenience**: Drivers no longer need to leave their vehicles to toggle lights on or off. This convenience is especially valuable in challenging conditions where stepping out may be risky.
3. **Superior Control**: The ability to modify lighting settings on the fly allows drivers to respond to changing conditions, such as encountering wildlife or navigating through dense underbrush.
4. **Boosted Safety**: By remaining focused on the path instead of fiddling with external controls, drivers can concentrate better on navigating, thereby reducing the chances of accidents.
**Conclusion**
The emergence of devices that allow drivers to control off-road lights from the cabin signals a remarkable progression in off-roading technology. With features crafted for convenience, safety, and customization, these gadgets are destined to become indispensable tools for off-road enthusiasts. As technological advancements continue, we can anticipate even more innovations that improve the off-roading experience, rendering it safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
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