Oops. Forgot the link for the bulbs:

 

Thanks to all for your information and opinions. After looking at the choices, for me, it seems the LED's are a solution in search of a problem - especially if you consider the low prices, availability, and the long service life of the incandescent bulbs.
Just my opinion.,...jack

 

Another consideration is the COLOR of the LED...the ones on the Cougar in the video above are RED. This is relevant since the light from the LED will not wash out a faded red lens...how many "pink" taillights have you seen?

 

Usually the problem is a thermal flasher won't "trip" when LEDs are used, because of the reduced load? Adding a resistor seems to confirm that. Best solution is an electronic flasher.

As noted earlier, the instant-on is a plus for brake lights, the difference is almost the same as typical human reaction time. In some applications the vibration resistance is a huge plus, motorcycles for instance. On semi-trailers with lots of side marker lights, the lower consumption is a plus -- although now I see many trucks with 40+ lights, looks like Christmas.

 

Interesting input. Thanks guys.
Ron Francis Wiring is offering these 1157 LED replacement bulbs.

LR-57 RED - Staggered Pin Double Filament LED Bulb-Ron Francis Wiring

Of course at $27.95 EACH they aren't cheap.

AXRacer,
Thanks for the input on making the inside of the turn signal housing reflective. I am rebuilding my 48 F1 parking light housings and was trying to figure out how to make the inside reflective while painting or powder coating the outside to match the grille.

Phil

 

Agreed, but if you drive old cars regularly like I do you have to be aware that the older tail lights are smaller and not as noticeable as on newer cars. Anything to get the drivers behind you to pay attention is a help. I would not use LEDs up front but for brake lights I think it is a great idea, $50 is a lot cheaper than repairing your rear ended classic.

 

I'm running 6V LED lights in my/Dad's 37 sedan. The tail lights are brighter than they were with the stock incandescent bulbs. As others have said the beam angle is very important with LEDs.