The trip to my cabin is very steep, sharp curves and dark mountain road. I want to install some off-road lights to help see on the way up. Option one is to mount them to a cargo basket like a Yakima, on the roof. Option 2 is the Westin Bull Bar, but I don't like the look of it on an Expedition. Any other ideas? Also, if I mount them on the roof, how should I route the wiring for them? I have spent a lot of time modding my vehicles and don't think it will be that difficult, just need some advice, since this is my first Ford.

 

get a brushguard installed then mount the Aux lights on that.

 

I just don't like the way they look on an Expedition. The Expedition is to soccer mom looking for off-road type accessories. Just my opinion. A small light bar for the front end or roof is what I would like to find.

Routing the wires from the roof is also something I need to know, as that is probably where I will put them.

 

On my 01, I made some simple right-angle brackets that mount to existing bolts on the back of the bumper. They exit between the bumper and grill and hold a pair of Hella 55s. Wired the lights into the high-beam circuit (high beams on - driving lights on) and also added an on/off switch. Access to wiring is very easy under the hood and to switched power off the headlight switch. Very clean look, I get asked all the time if it was a factory option.

Another option that I know Hella offers is 3M adhesive mounting brackets for some of their models. They stick right to the bumper (or wherever else you feel like mounting them).

A hardware store will have suitable material for the brackets, or you can make a pattern and have some made. Go pretty beefy on the bracket material to help eliminate flex/vibration.

 

The '04 is a different animal as compared to 1997-02 when it comes to mounting auxiliary lighting. I know you don't like it, but the bull bar/brushguard idea is the most viable method. Rooftop mount? Check local laws that may limit such installs, and/or require covers for the lights when not in use. Another problem with rooftop mounts is the ever-present possibility that a drive-thru or commercial garage roof or beam might kiss them goodbye.

 

How about behind the grill. There's alot of room in there. I've been considering it myself. Anyone done it??