Part number: DD6869P · SAE Fog beam, amber backlight
Why this option
Amber for weather rather than for looks - yellow light scatters less in rain and fog than white, which is the point of running them at all on a truck that tows in East Tennessee. SAE Fog beam pattern rather than driving or combo, so they are legal and useful on the road instead of purely off-road lamps.
Trade-offs
None meaningful.
Photography
Bench photo once it arrives
As delivered
Added after fitting
Installed
Added once it's been lived with
In use
What it actually cost
Bought — cost not logged here yet.
Bought at a discount from Diode Dynamics, arranged directly with support from their team to bring this project to life. Nothing was supplied free, though the discount made it possible, no ongoing arrangement exists, and nothing about this write-up is owed to them — if these disappoint, that will appear here in the same detail as anything bought at full price.
Squadron / S1 series
Not selected
Baja Designs
Why this option
The reference standard for pod lighting — genuine optical engineering, amber options, and a strong warranty.
Why it wasn't chosen
Asked directly and never replied. Their sponsorship page states they get high volume and asks people not to chase, so one email was sent and no follow-up was made. The Squadron remains a well-regarded pod - this came down to the answer that arrived.
What it actually cost
Not purchased yet — no cost recorded.
Cost, installation notes, and a verdict will be added here once this part is bought and fitted.
D-Series
Not selected
Rigid Industries
Why this option
ADD's own bumpers are designed around Rigid mounting, which would make this the path of least resistance if an ADD bumper is chosen.
Why it wasn't chosen
Never approached, and passed over once Diode Dynamics covered both the headlights and the pods. Running one manufacturer across the front of the truck keeps the color temperature and the housings consistent.
What it actually cost
Not purchased yet — no cost recorded.
Cost, installation notes, and a verdict will be added here once this part is bought and fitted.