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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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 Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2024 6:08 pm Post subject: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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I've noticed that many of the newer VW vehicles have illuminated grill badges, and stumbled across a company that makes them: https://www.carledlogo.com/car-logo-badge/led-vw-emblem/
I did it! Pics don't do it justice. Looks really cool. But this gives you an idea...
I have more important improvements and fixes to make on my weekender. ....and yet, I had to try it. Ordered the emblem, popped out the OEM emblem, and went to work. Wanted something that was semi-plug-and-play -- so I easily could swap the new emblem for the old one.
There's a star-wars emblem on thingiverse.com that snaps into the spot for the OEM emblem, and the guy nailed the size, clips, etc. I redesigned the emblem and made it an adapter -- basically shaved off the star wars emblem. But the illuminated version has a curved backside. So I made a curved section and glued it to the adapter, and then mounted the illuminated adapter to it. Ran a 12v igntion-triggered wiring from my aux panel under the dash, thru the firewall, and into the new emblem. Added a connector near the grille so it can be unplugged when the grill is removed for service.
This worked out so well, I think I'm gonna have to buy a red one for the rear hatch 
Here are photos of the adapter and back-side of the emblem. There are two pieces to the adapter because it would be difficult to 3d print as one piece.
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obnoxiousblue
Samba Member
Joined: February 21, 2007
Posts: 2959
Location: East Northport, NY
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| Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2024 6:21 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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HELL
YES
If you sell these as a kit, put me down!
_________________
Mike
1964 Beetle
2001 Eurovan Camper |
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Glenn 
Mr. 010
Joined: December 25, 2001
Posts: 77173
Location: Sneaking up behind you
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| Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2024 7:00 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| obnoxiousblue wrote: |
HELL
YES
If you sell these as a kit, put me down! |
_________________
Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"
Member #1009
#BlueSquare
עַם יִשְׂרָאֵל חַי |
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obnoxiousblue
Samba Member
Joined: February 21, 2007
Posts: 2959
Location: East Northport, NY
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| Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2024 7:09 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| Glenn wrote: |
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Don’t make me come down there… 
_________________
Mike
1964 Beetle
2001 Eurovan Camper |
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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 5:07 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| obnoxiousblue wrote: |
HELL
YES
If you sell these as a kit, put me down! |
Wasn't planning to sell a kit, but posted the snap-in adapter files on thingiverse.com so anyone can download and print them. https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6594695
There may be other creative ways to mount it in the grill in the place where the OEM emblem snaps-out. I had considered cutting or disassembling the OEM emblem and using part of it as a base for the new emblem but wanted to keep it in-case the illuminated emblem didn't work out.
YMMV on how to wire this in -- it only needs a +12V and ground either triggered by ignition, headlight power, or a switch. I installed an aux fuse panel and used that to power mine.
This adapter was printed with PETG. ABS has better heat resistance but I didn't have any on-hand. I will likely put a small amt of heat reflective insulation on the back-side for additional insurance against heat deformation. |
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Glenn
Mr. 010
Joined: December 25, 2001
Posts: 77173
Location: Sneaking up behind you
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 5:16 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| obnoxiousblue wrote: |
| Glenn wrote: |
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Don’t make me come down there… |
Don't threaten me with a good time.
_________________
Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"
Member #1009
#BlueSquare
עַם יִשְׂרָאֵל חַי |
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MrBreeze
Samba Hitman
Joined: October 06, 2002
Posts: 5561
Location: Lawn Guyland, Noo Yawk
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 5:49 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| obnoxiousblue wrote: |
| Glenn wrote: |
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Don’t make me come down there… |
He's just waiting for a Subaru one
_________________
-=Rob
WTB: Bay Shore or Queensboro VW Frames
HBB 1984-2009
RW 1943-2011
ER 1964-2023 |
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obnoxiousblue
Samba Member
Joined: February 21, 2007
Posts: 2959
Location: East Northport, NY
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 5:50 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| MrBreeze wrote: |
He's just waiting for a Subaru one |
Something tells me VanGeek would be happy to help! LOL
_________________
Mike
1964 Beetle
2001 Eurovan Camper |
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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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bigfoot_ev
Samba Member
Joined: March 13, 2018
Posts: 162
Location: Anacortes, WA
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 10:51 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| VanGeek, that's friggin awesome! |
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bcolins
Samba Member
Joined: December 04, 2020
Posts: 750
Location: Austin, TX
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| Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2024 11:12 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| Love it! If you do a kit,…. I will take two for my 95 EVC and my 2003 MV |
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OB Bus
Samba Member
Joined: February 09, 2003
Posts: 2557
Location: Ocean Beach in Beautiful BLUE California
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KillerGriller
Samba Member
Joined: June 15, 2022
Posts: 64
Location: Ontario, Canada
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| Posted: Mon Apr 29, 2024 12:41 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| It's stuff like this that REALLY tempts me to buy a 3d printer, so many options to build bits that fit your specific application. Well done! |
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bcolins
Samba Member
Joined: December 04, 2020
Posts: 750
Location: Austin, TX
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| Posted: Wed May 15, 2024 4:45 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| VanGeek wrote: |
| obnoxiousblue wrote: |
HELL
YES
If you sell these as a kit, put me down! |
Wasn't planning to sell a kit, but posted the snap-in adapter files on thingiverse.com so anyone can download and print them. https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6594695
There may be other creative ways to mount it in the grill in the place where the OEM emblem snaps-out. I had considered cutting or disassembling the OEM emblem and using part of it as a base for the new emblem but wanted to keep it in-case the illuminated emblem didn't work out.
YMMV on how to wire this in -- it only needs a +12V and ground either triggered by ignition, headlight power, or a switch. I installed an aux fuse panel and used that to power mine.
This adapter was printed with PETG. ABS has better heat resistance but I didn't have any on-hand. I will likely put a small amt of heat reflective insulation on the back-side for additional insurance against heat deformation. |
I have access to a 3D printer,.....how would I use your file(s). I have no experience with 3D printing but am pretty handy and a fast learner.
Brian |
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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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| Posted: Wed May 15, 2024 6:46 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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Very cool -- glad you are trying it. From the thingiverse link, follow the instructions there and view the photos for greater insight. Download the stl files, load them into a 3d printer slicer, and print each piece. Use PETG or ABS filament. I recommend you consult your local library or a nerdy friend that has a 3d printer to help you. Libraries often print stl files as a service for free or a small fee. Just make sure they don't print in PLA -- use PETG or ABS filament because other filaments don't have sufficient heat and UV resistant characteristics.
Use plastic epoxy to glue the two pieces together (flat side to flat side) with the hole in each piece aligned so the wiring from the emblem can pass thru the hole to the back of the adapter. The adapter will clip inside the same space as the original emblem. The other side (slight curve) will fit the back-side of the LED emblem. Remove the protective cover from the back of the emblem to expose the double-sided tape and affix to the curved front of the adapter.
Connect the leads to a power source and you're all set!
I haven't "heat-soaked" my van and had the opportunity to idle for extended period of time on a hot day. This MIGHT cause the plastic adapter to deform, so I will likely stuff some insulation behind the adapter to protect it from excessive heat that may come from the engine compartment and/or radiator that sits behind the adapter. I'll post a pic after I add the insulation.
ALSO... The front emblem was so much fun that I'm working on a rear version as well! Will share more when I get things working. |
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bcolins
Samba Member
Joined: December 04, 2020
Posts: 750
Location: Austin, TX
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| Posted: Wed May 15, 2024 7:12 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| VanGeek wrote: |
Very cool -- glad you are trying it. From the thingiverse link, follow the instructions there and view the photos for greater insight. Download the stl files, load them into a 3d printer slicer, and print each piece. Use PETG or ABS filament. I recommend you consult your local library or a nerdy friend that has a 3d printer to help you. Libraries often print stl files as a service for free or a small fee. Just make sure they don't print in PLA -- use PETG or ABS filament because other filaments don't have sufficient heat and UV resistant characteristics.
Use plastic epoxy to glue the two pieces together (flat side to flat side) with the hole in each piece aligned so the wiring from the emblem can pass thru the hole to the back of the adapter. The adapter will clip inside the same space as the original emblem. The other side (slight curve) will fit the back-side of the LED emblem. Remove the protective cover from the back of the emblem to expose the double-sided tape and affix to the curved front of the adapter.
Connect the leads to a power source and you're all set!
I haven't "heat-soaked" my van and had the opportunity to idle for extended period of time on a hot day. This MIGHT cause the plastic adapter to deform, so I will likely stuff some insulation behind the adapter to protect it from excessive heat that may come from the engine compartment and/or radiator that sits behind the adapter. I'll post a pic after I add the insulation.
ALSO... The front emblem was so much fun that I'm working on a rear version as well! Will share more when I get things working. |
Yes, my local Austin Library has a maker lab with a 3D printer. My Chromebook computer is unable to open your files . I have a very basic iPhone,....I tried opening on that,....and it does not appear to be working on it either. Is it possible to click your link from the library maker lab computer and then send it directly to their printer?
Brian |
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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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| Posted: Thu May 16, 2024 4:39 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| bcolins wrote: |
Yes, my local Austin Library has a maker lab with a 3D printer. My Chromebook computer is unable to open your files . I have a very basic iPhone,....I tried opening on that,....and it does not appear to be working on it either. Is it possible to click your link from the library maker lab computer and then send it directly to their printer?
Brian |
Your Chromebook probably doesn't have an application installed that can view or utilize stl files. stl files are one of the standards used for representing 3d objects and most 3d printer software can read them and convert to print files that the 3d printer can understand.
Typical process for creating and printing objects is:
- Create object in a CAD program (example: Autocad)
- Export object in stl format
- Read stl into 3d printer software (example: Ultimaker Cura)
- Use 3d printer software to "slice" the object into layers and build "gcode" file containing instructions for printer
- Send print file to printer
- Printer uses print file to print the object.
This guy explains it well in 75 seconds: https://youtu.be/EF8CNR-gcXo
If your Austin library has a maker lab, I recommend you download the two stl files from thingiverse and store them on your computer or a thumb drive. The library should be able to read the files and use them to print the objects. |
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bcolins
Samba Member
Joined: December 04, 2020
Posts: 750
Location: Austin, TX
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| Posted: Thu May 16, 2024 11:20 am Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| VanGeek wrote: |
| bcolins wrote: |
Yes, my local Austin Library has a maker lab with a 3D printer. My Chromebook computer is unable to open your files . I have a very basic iPhone,....I tried opening on that,....and it does not appear to be working on it either. Is it possible to click your link from the library maker lab computer and then send it directly to their printer?
Brian |
Your Chromebook probably doesn't have an application installed that can view or utilize stl files. stl files are one of the standards used for representing 3d objects and most 3d printer software can read them and convert to print files that the 3d printer can understand.
Typical process for creating and printing objects is:
- Create object in a CAD program (example: Autocad)
- Export object in stl format
- Read stl into 3d printer software (example: Ultimaker Cura)
- Use 3d printer software to "slice" the object into layers and build "gcode" file containing instructions for printer
- Send print file to printer
- Printer uses print file to print the object.
This guy explains it well in 75 seconds: https://youtu.be/EF8CNR-gcXo
If your Austin library has a maker lab, I recommend you download the two stl files from thingiverse and store them on your computer or a thumb drive. The library should be able to read the files and use them to print the objects. |
Turns out the central library has an intro to 3D printing class next week,...so going to attend it. They use "Tinkercad". I have also downloaded Cura,....however it looks like there are two versions |
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debbiej
Samba Member
Joined: December 14, 2008
Posts: 1570
Location: las cruces, nm
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| Posted: Sat May 18, 2024 6:03 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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| that really is just perfect. |
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VanGeek
Samba Member
Joined: September 25, 2022
Posts: 252
Location: New England
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| Posted: Mon May 20, 2024 7:17 pm Post subject: Re: VW illuminated emblem -- totally unnecessary but I had to do it |
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