Kc 40 Light Bar

Get All the Details on KC’s Top-of-the-Line Off-Road Lighting

If you’re an avid off-roader looking to upgrade your vehicle’s lighting, the KC HiLiTES 40 Inch Light Bar should be at the top of your list. With a whopping 40 inches of LED illumination, this light bar is ready to transform night into day on even the darkest trails.

But before you make this hefty investment in your rig, it’s wise to understand exactly what the KC 40 inch light bar offers. This buying guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the KC 40 inch light bar to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your needs.

We’ll cover all the key facts like features, pricing, installation, and more. Let’s get started!

An Impressive Array of Features

The KC 40 inch light bar is packed with features to provide maximum illumination for off-road adventures. Here are some of the most notable features this light bar offers:

• 40-inch size – With its ample 40-inch dimensions, this light bar provides a huge spread of light to maximize visibility.
• Modular design – The light bar is divided into smaller sections, so if one section is damaged, it can be replaced rather than the whole light bar.
• Quad optics – Equipped with clear inner and outer lenses to focus light output for longer and wider beam patterns.
• LED technology – Utilizes bright, efficient LEDs that produce up to 11,400 lumens yet draw less power.
• Waterproof – The housing has a sealed design to withstand wet conditions like rain, mud, and snow.
• Multiple mounting options – Can be mounted above or below a vehicle’s bumper for optimal positioning.
• Wiring harness included – Comes complete with a universal wiring harness for straightforward installation.

With this robust set of capabilities, it’s easy to see why the 40 inch light bar is a top choice for extreme off-roading scenarios.

Where to Buy for the Best Price

As a premium light bar packed with technology, the KC 40 inch model does come at a higher price point than smaller and more basic options. The MSRP for the 40 inch light bar is $829.99, but many retailers sell it for less.

Amazon frequently offers the light bar for around $750, which is one of the best deals available. Walmart also sells it for a similar price when in stock. You may also be able to find it for less than MSRP by checking retailers like 4 Wheel Parts, Real Truck, and Extreme Terrain.

When shopping around, be sure to verify you’re getting an authentic KC HiLiTES branded light bar. Some third party sellers offer cheaper imitation models that won’t provide the same quality and performance.

It’s worth paying a little more to get the real deal from a reputable retailer. The KC name means you’re getting an exceptionally well-engineered and durable product.

Vehicle Fitment for Seamless Installation

The KC 40 inch light bar is designed as a universal fit so it can be mounted on almost any type of vehicle. The included mounting brackets and wiring harness allow for straightforward installation.

This light bar is a popular upgrade for:

• Jeep Wrangler: 1997-2022 models
• Toyota Tacoma: 2005-2022 models
• Toyota Tundra: 2007-2022 models
• Toyota 4Runner: 2010-2022 models
• Ford F-150: 2015-2022 models
• Chevrolet Silverado: 2007-2022 models
• Ram 1500: 2009-2022 models

With its 40 inch length, the light bar may be too large for some smaller SUVs and trucks. Always measure your available space before purchasing.

As one of the slimmest LED light bars on the market, though, the KC 40 inch model can mount on most full-size trucks and SUVs without any issues.

Step-By-Step Installation Instructions

Installing the KC 40 inch light bar on your own is definitely doable with some mechanical know-how. Here are the basic steps:

1. Choose a mounting location that protects the light bar from impacts and provides good visibility. The bumper is the most common spot.
2. Bolt the included mounting brackets onto the back of the light bar using the provided hardware.
3. Secure the mounting brackets to your vehicle using the appropriate hardware for your vehicle’s bumper.
4. Run the power wires from the light bar’s harness to your vehicle’s battery using the included switch and relay.
5. Connect the ground wire and then connect the power wire to the battery’s positive and negative terminals.
6. Use cable ties and wire loom to neatly route the wiring under panels and away from hot or moving parts.
7. Once wired up, test the light bar to make sure all LEDs are functioning before completing the installation.

It’s smart to watch some online tutorial videos as well to get a better idea of the full installation process. And don’t be afraid to hire a professional if the wiring seems too complex.

Durable Construction for Years of Performance

With a reputation for quality, KC designs its light bars to handle all the roughest terrain you can throw at them. The 40 inch light bar has a rugged construction that gives it lasting durability.

Housing: The housing and lens are made from tough polycarbonate that can take impacts without cracking. The housing has an IP68 rating for waterproofing in wet conditions.

Bracket: The mounting bracket is made from stainless steel that won’t rust or corrode even when exposed to moisture.

Wiring: The wiring harness uses high-grade components and waterproof Deutsch connectors.

Lenses: Inner and outer polycarbonate lenses protect the LEDs while optimizing the light beam distance and spread.

LEDs: KC uses only premium LEDs rated for 50,000+ hours of operation for long, reliable lighting performance.

With proper care and maintenance, you can expect a decade or more of reliable service from a KC 40 inch light bar installed on your rig.

3-Year Warranty for Peace of Mind

KC HiLiTES stands behind the 40 inch light bar with an industryleading 3-year warranty. This provides assurance that any defects in materials or workmanship will be repaired or replaced free of charge.

The warranty covers issues like:

• LED burnt outs
• Lens cracks or damage
• Housing leaks
• Mounting bracket defects
• Wiring harness problems

The warranty remains valid if the product is used as intended and not purposefully damaged. Issues caused by improper installation would not be covered.

KC’s excellent warranty shows the company’s confidence in the 40 inch light bar’s construction. Very few light bars in this price range offer over 2 years of coverage.

How KC Compares to Other Brand Brands

When comparing the KC 40 inch light bar to other top brands like Baja Designs, Rigid Industries, and Vision X, KC holds its own and often comes out on top.

Here’s a quick brand comparison:

• Baja Designs – Known for innovative optics but very expensive
• Rigid Industries – Reliable lighting but fewer accessory options
• Vision X – Very affordable but not as ruggedly built
• KC HiLiTES – Excellent balance of quality, performance, and price

KC is widely regarded as one of the most reputable brands in off-road lighting. The company has been engineering rugged and reliable illumination for racers and enthusiasts since the 1970s.

You really can’t go wrong with a KC light bar. The 40 inch model gets you an extra long LED bar with excellent performance at a more affordable price than most competitors.

Impressive 11,400 Lumen Light Output

With its 40 inch size and potent LEDs, the KC HiLiTES 40 inch light bar pumps out a mammoth 11,400 lumens of light.

For comparison, many 32 inch light bars only offer around 8,000 to 10,000 lumens. So the extra length of the KC 40 inch bar creates a noticeably brighter beam pattern.

The quad projector optics also focus the LEDs’ output to give both long distance spot lighting and wide flood lighting. This versatility handles everything from high speed desert running to slow rock crawling.

And with a color temperature of 6,000K, the light appears bright white, not blue or yellow. This makes it easier to identify trail hazards and properly see terrain and obstacles.

Customizable Beam Patterns

One cool feature of the KC 40 inch light bar is the ability to customize the beam pattern by swapping lenses.

The light comes installed with a spot lens in the middle and flood lenses on the outer sections. But you can fine tune the light spread by mixing and matching:

• Spot/Spot/Spot – Maximizes beam distance
• Flood/Flood/Flood – Provides wider light coverage
• Combo Spot/Flood – Balances distance and width

Having options to adjust the optics makes this light bar extremely versatile. Just swap lenses to optimize lighting for different types of driving.

Built for the Wettest Conditions

With an IP68 rating, the KC HiLiTES 40 inch light bar is 100% waterproof and sealed to handle the wettest conditions.

The housing is tightly sealed to prevent water intrusion. Even when splashing through deep puddles or mud, you don’t have to worry about moisture harming the electrics and LEDs.

The waterproof Deutsch wiring connectors also keep all of the internal connections protected from water and corrosion.

Constant exposure to wetness will take a toll over time, so regular cleaning and re-sealing of the housing is recommended. But the waterproofing gives you confidence for all those muddy or rainy off-road trips.

What Customers Are Saying

With hundreds of reviews across retailers, the KC 40 inch light bar earns very high marks for its performance and construction. Here are some of the most common compliments:

• “This thing is brighter than the sun! Lights up everything even at high speeds.”
• “Easy to install and the wiring is heavy duty.”
• “Light is focused so I get both good spot and flood.”
• “Housing feels really solid and durable.”
• “Very happy with the 3-year warranty from a top brand.”

Critical reviews are hard to find, though a few buyers did receive defective units covered under warranty. The majority agree this is one of the best LED light bars available today.

Finding the Best Price with Discounts

As a premium product, the KC 40 inch light bar carries a higher price tag. But you can often find discounts to help save money on it:

• Buy during sales events – Retailers like 4 Wheel Parts and Real Truck run sales around major holidays when you can save 10-15%.
• Team up on a group buy order – Join other enthusiasts and purchase together to qualify for bulk discounts.
• Shop end of model year clearance – Look for clearance deals when new model years release around September/October.
• Choose open box discounts – Opt for an open box unit that has been opened but never used to save up to 20%.
• Wait for online coupons – Occasional codes can offer another 5-10% off an order.

With a little deal hunting, you can knock $100 or more off the retail price. Since this light bar should last for many years, it’s worth taking the time to find some savings.

Energy Efficient and Long-Lasting

While packing an 11,400 lumen punch, the KC 40 inch light bar maintains excellent energy efficiency thanks to its LED design. It draws just 7.5 amps on high beam mode.

This is less wattage than older halogen light bars, saving engine power and putting less drain on your vehicle’s electrical system.

With a voltage range of 9 to 30V, the light bar can handle being connected to 12V or 24V power sources without issue. This adaptability makes wiring straightforward.

And the 50,000+ hour LED lifespan rating means you can count on many years of service without bulb burnouts every season. The extra energy efficiency and longevity really add value.

User-Friendly Installation

Some light bars require cutting or drilling during installation, but KC’s mounting bracket design allows for no-drill mounting in most applications.

The ratcheting bracket system lets you securely bolt or clamp the light bar into place without tools modifications. Combined with plug and play waterproof wiring, installation is quick and user-friendly.

KC also provides clearly written instructions with photos to guide you through each step. Everything you need is included in the kit except basic hand tools and wire crimps.

Just take care when routing wires through the engine bay. Avoid hot components, sharp edges, and moving parts that could damage wires over time.

Low-Maintenance Operation

Once installed, the KC 40 inch light bar doesn’t require much regular maintenance to keep performing. But following a few basic habits will extend its longevity:

• Periodically clean the lenses with water and mild detergent to maximize light output.
• Check that mounting hardware remains tight. Vibration can loosen bolts over time.
• Inspect wires for corrosion, fraying, cracks in insulation. Repair as needed.
• Re-apply dielectric grease on wiring connections to prevent corrosion.
• Check housings and lenses for damage after impacts. Replace broken parts.
• Test function regularly and address any LED or wiring issues promptly.

Making small repairs immediately, cleaning dust/dirt buildup, and re-sealing the housing annually will keep your light bar running for many years.

Expand Your Lighting with Compatible Accessories

Part of the benefit of choosing KC HiLiTES is that the company offers a wide range of compatible lighting accessories. This allows you to expand and customize your lighting setup.

Some popular accessories that integrate seamlessly with the 40 inch light bar include:

• 20″ OnX6 Combo Light Bar – Pairs with the 40″ bar for supplemental flood lighting.
• Gravity Pro6 Single Row Lights – Matching smaller LED lights for the a-pillar or bumper corners.
• Auxiliary LED Rock Lights – Provides illumination underneath the vehicle.
• Wiring Harnesses and Switches – For running multiple accessories from the same power source.
• Mounts and Brackets – Allow flexible positioning of smaller lights around the vehicle.

Mixing and matching approved accessories lets you create a fully integrated lighting system for 360° off-road visibility.

Built for Off-Road Punishment

While it also functions great for street use, the KC 40 inch light bar is purpose-built for off-road use. Everything about its design is engineered to survive and thrive in the toughest riding environments.

Key elements that make this light bar so capable off-road include:

• Durable housing – Made to withstand impacts from trail debris without damage.
• Waterproofing – Keeps mud, grit, and moisture out of the sensitive electrics.
• Heavy-duty wiring – Withstands rattling on uneven terrain without fraying or cracking.
• Modular segments – Individual panels can be replaced if damaged instead of the whole bar.
• Quality mounting – Bracket keeps the light solidly in place even over rough terrain.
• Triple sealed optics – Prevents lens fogging and dust intrusion.

For overland expeditions, desert racing, and rock crawling, the KC 40 inch light bar has the ruggedness to keep you safely illuminated in the most remote regions.

KC’s Stringent Quality Control Testing

All KC HiLiTES products undergo rigorous testing protocols both in development and production. This quality control ensures consistent performance and durability in the field.

For the 40 inch light bar, testing includes:

• Drop testing – Bars are dropped repeatedly onto concrete from 6 feet high to verify housing integrity.
• Rain testing – Bars must endure heavy simulated rainfall for 30-60 minutes straight while powered on.
• Dust testing – Bars run for hours in professional dust testing chambers to confirm waterproofing.
• Vibration testing – Bars are shaken violently to confirm components and wiring will not shake loose.
• On/off cycling – Bars are power cycled thousands of times to verify LED life expectancy.
• Wiring tests – Wiring harnesses are stretched, twisted, and abused to ensure durability.
• Voltage testing – Bars must power on and off correctly at min/max voltage levels.
• Photometric testing – Light output levels and beam patterns are validated for consistency.

KC’s military-grade testing procedures ensure exceptional quality control and reliability.

Conclusion

The KC HiLiTES 40 inch light bar is a top-of-the-line LED light bar packed with technology for severe off-road use. With its quad projector optics, rugged housing, and 11,400 lumens of raw power, this light bar provides the ultimate illumination upgrade.

While the 40 inch bar does come at a premium cost, the unrivaled performance, durable construction, and long 3-year warranty make it well worth the investment. Drivers who tackled technical trails or go off-roading in extreme conditions will immediately benefit from the quality of light offered by this LED bar.

Just be sure to buy from authorized retailers to get the full KC warranty protection. Take the time to properly install and wire the light bar using KC’s instructions. With periodic cleaning and maintenance, your light bar will provide many years of reliable lighting on your overlanding or trail rig.

The KC HiLiTES 40 inch LED light bar is purpose-engineered for hardcore off-road enthusiasts seeking the highest quality LED illumination. If that sounds like you, this American-made light bar deserves a spot on your wishlist.