Prado 120: Driving Lights and Overheating While Towing

This document addresses concerns about the potential for front-mounted driving lights to cause overheating in a 120 series Toyota Prado, particularly when towing. This guide summarises user experiences and provides insights into whether driving lights obstruct airflow to the radiator and lead to overheating.

Problem

The primary concern is whether fitting driving lights (specifically 175mm round lights) to an ARB Deluxe steel bar on a 120 series petrol Prado will impede airflow to the radiator, leading to overheating, especially when towing a medium-sized off-road camper.

Solution

Based on user experiences, it is unlikely that driving lights, even larger ones, will cause overheating issues in a 120 series Prado. Multiple users have reported using various driving light setups in conjunction with ARB bars and towing without experiencing any overheating problems.

  • Monitoring engine temperature with a ScanGauge or similar device is recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Relevant Parts and Specifications

  • Driving Light Sizes: Users have successfully used lights ranging from 175mm to 240mm in diameter without issue. Examples include:
    • 175mm (specified in the initial query)
    • 200mm (IPF900’s)
    • 210mm (Lightforce Genesis 210s)
    • 240mm
    • Rally 4000’s
  • ARB Bars: ARB Deluxe and Sahara bars are commonly used.
  • Tow Weights: Users reported towing trailers/campers weighing approximately 1400kg without overheating issues.

This technical summary was auto-generated based on recovered archives. Do not rely on its factual accuracy. Refer to the original thread. Source: View Original Conversation

Continue the discussion below.