Introduction
The Xpedition turn signal kit, manufactured by W. D. Electronics, is marketed as a “plug and play” solution for integrating turn signals into specialized vehicle setups. However, user experiences shared in online forums, such as the Xpedition Forums, indicate that the installation process may involve more complexity than expected. Users have highlighted issues such as insufficient wire length for certain components, the need for improvisation due to hardware placement conflicts, and structural limitations in the design of the column-mounted controls. This article explores the key considerations, challenges, and workarounds encountered during the installation of the Xpedition turn signal kit, based on firsthand accounts from users who have attempted the installation process. The information presented is derived directly from the source material, with an emphasis on transparency regarding the limitations and potential modifications required for successful implementation.
Overview of the Xpedition Turn Signal Kit
The Xpedition turn signal kit is designed for use in environments where standard turn signal installations are impractical due to the nature of the vehicle or the integration of additional equipment. According to user reports, the kit includes a column-mounted turn signal switch and related wiring components. However, the design of the turn signal switch has been described as “flimsy,” raising concerns about its durability and reliability under real-world conditions. Additionally, users have noted that the horn switch wiring is notably short, requiring additional steps to extend the wiring and accommodate the installation.
Despite the “plug and play” branding, the installation process involves a significant degree of mechanical disassembly. Users have reported that they had to remove both front upper fenders, the dashboard, and the entire lower left side of the vehicle to access and integrate the components. These findings suggest that the installation may not be suitable for users who lack advanced mechanical skills or appropriate tools. Furthermore, the presence of additional equipment, such as radios and communication systems, in the area where the lower bank of switch blanks is typically located, necessitated further modifications, including the cutting and repositioning of the horn and hazard switches into a vent cover.
Installation Process and Required Modifications
The installation of the Xpedition turn signal kit, as described by users, involves multiple steps that go beyond the typical expectations of a plug-and-play solution. A detailed breakdown of the process, based on the available source material, is as follows:
Disassembly of Vehicle Components: Users must remove several key components of the vehicle to gain access to the necessary mounting locations for the turn signal switch and associated wiring. This includes the removal of both front upper fenders, the dash panel, and the entire lower left side of the vehicle. The extent of the disassembly indicates that the installation is not a straightforward procedure and may require a significant investment of time and effort.
Wiring Adjustments: The horn switch wiring provided with the kit is reported to be insufficient in length to reach its intended location without additional modification. As a result, users must extend the wiring using appropriate connectors and insulation methods to ensure the functionality of the horn feature. This step requires careful handling to avoid compromising the integrity of the electrical connections.
Integration with Existing Equipment: In setups where additional equipment, such as radios or communication systems, is installed in the area designated for switch blanks, users may encounter spatial conflicts. In one reported case, the installation of a radio and comms system necessitated the repositioning of the horn and hazard switches. The user improvised by cutting the switches and mounting them within a vent cover to maintain accessibility and aesthetic consistency with the vehicle’s design.
Testing and Final Adjustments: After the physical installation is complete, it is essential to test the functionality of the turn signals and horn to ensure proper operation. Users may need to make minor adjustments to the wiring or switch positioning to achieve optimal performance and alignment with the vehicle’s control layout.
These steps collectively illustrate the complexity of the installation process and highlight the importance of planning and preparation before beginning the procedure. Users who lack experience with vehicle electrical systems or mechanical modifications may find the process particularly challenging and may benefit from consulting with a qualified technician or seeking additional guidance from the manufacturer.
Limitations and Potential Issues
Several limitations and potential issues have been identified based on the experiences of users who have installed the Xpedition turn signal kit. These include:
Design Limitations: The column-mounted turn signal switch is described as flimsy, which may affect its durability and long-term reliability. Users have not reported any specific failures, but the structural concerns suggest that the switch may be prone to wear or breakage over time, particularly in environments with frequent use or exposure to vibrations.
Insufficient Wire Length: The horn switch wiring is reported to be too short to reach its intended location without modification. This limitation requires users to extend the wiring manually, which may increase the risk of electrical faults if not done correctly. Additionally, the process of extending the wiring may introduce complexity for users who are not familiar with proper wiring techniques.
Compatibility with Additional Equipment: The integration of the turn signal kit with other equipment, such as radios or communication systems, may require significant modifications to the existing layout. In one reported case, the presence of such equipment necessitated the cutting and repositioning of the horn and hazard switches. This highlights the need for careful planning and assessment of the vehicle’s existing setup before proceeding with the installation.
Installation Complexity: The installation process involves the removal of multiple vehicle components, including fenders, dash panels, and side panels. This level of disassembly may be challenging for users who lack the necessary tools or mechanical expertise. Additionally, the process may require a significant amount of time and effort, which could be a deterrent for users seeking a quick and simple solution.
These limitations underscore the importance of considering the potential challenges and requirements before proceeding with the installation of the Xpedition turn signal kit. Users who are aware of these issues can better prepare for the process and make informed decisions regarding the feasibility of the installation.
Workarounds and Modifications
Given the challenges and limitations associated with the Xpedition turn signal kit, users have developed various workarounds and modifications to facilitate the installation and improve functionality. These include:
Improvised Mounting Solutions: In cases where the standard mounting options are insufficient or incompatible with the vehicle’s setup, users have resorted to creative mounting solutions. For example, one user cut the horn and hazard switches and mounted them within a vent cover to maintain accessibility while accommodating the placement of other equipment. This approach demonstrates the adaptability required to integrate the turn signal kit into non-standard configurations.
Wiring Extensions and Reinforcements: To address the issue of insufficient wire length for the horn switch, users have extended the wiring using appropriate connectors and insulation. This modification allows the horn to function correctly while ensuring the integrity of the electrical connections. Additionally, users have reinforced the wiring to prevent damage or wear, particularly in areas where the wiring is exposed to movement or vibration.
Structural Reinforcements for the Turn Signal Switch: Given the reported flimsiness of the column-mounted turn signal switch, some users have reinforced the switch using additional support mechanisms or alternative mounting methods. These modifications aim to enhance the durability and reliability of the switch, particularly in environments where the switch is subjected to frequent use or mechanical stress.
Testing and Calibration: After the installation is complete, users are advised to test the functionality of the turn signals and horn to ensure proper operation. If any issues are detected, users may need to make minor adjustments to the wiring or switch positioning to achieve optimal performance. This step is crucial for identifying and resolving potential problems before the vehicle is put into regular use.
These workarounds and modifications illustrate the practical considerations that users must address when installing the Xpedition turn signal kit. By anticipating potential challenges and implementing appropriate solutions, users can enhance the performance and longevity of the kit while ensuring compatibility with their specific vehicle setup.
Conclusion
The Xpedition turn signal kit offers a specialized solution for integrating turn signals into vehicles with non-standard configurations. While marketed as a plug-and-play system, the installation process involves a significant degree of mechanical and electrical work, including the removal of multiple vehicle components and the extension of wiring. Users have reported several challenges, such as the flimsy design of the column-mounted turn signal switch, insufficient wire length for the horn switch, and the need for improvisation when integrating the kit with additional equipment. These issues highlight the importance of careful planning and preparation before proceeding with the installation.
Despite these challenges, users have developed various workarounds and modifications to facilitate the installation and improve functionality. These include improvised mounting solutions, wiring extensions, structural reinforcements, and thorough testing and calibration. By addressing these challenges proactively, users can enhance the performance and reliability of the Xpedition turn signal kit while ensuring compatibility with their specific vehicle setup.