Kc 50 Light Bar

Get the Most Out of Your Off-Road Lighting with the KC 50 Inch Light Bar

The KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar is one of the most powerful and versatile off-road lights on the market. With a staggering 50,000 raw lumens of illumination, this LED light bar can turn night into day on even the darkest trails.

But with so many options and accessories available, it can be tough to know exactly what you need to make the most out of your KC 50 Inch Light Bar. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the perfect light bar setup for your vehicle and lighting needs.

Key Features of the KC 50 Inch Light Bar

The KC 50 Inch Light Bar offers exceptional performance and durability:

• 50,000 lumens output using the latest CREE LED technology
• Flexible mounting options including vehicle roof, bumper, A-pillar or light bar
• Driving/Combo beam patterns for ideal illumination on and off-road
• IP68 waterproof rating for use in any weather conditions
• Diffused lens for reduced glare and even light distribution
• Overdrive circuitry to protect against overheating and electrical issues
• Modular design that allows damaged sections to be replaced
• 5-year warranty for peace of mind

With hardcore lumen output, strategic beam patterns, and rugged construction, this light bar is ideal for off-road, commercial, and agricultural applications where maximum illumination is needed.

Where to Buy the KC 50 Inch Light Bar

The KC 50 Inch Light Bar is available from authorized KC HiLiTES dealers as well as popular online retailers:

• KC HiLiTES website – Order direct from the manufacturer
• 4 Wheel Parts – Trusted retailer of off-road parts and accessories
• Amazon – Convenient shipping and competitive pricing
• Quadratec – Specializes in Jeep & off-road parts
• Xtreme Terrain – Stocks hard-to-find lights and accessories

Be sure to buy from an authorized seller to ensure you receive a genuine KC product with full warranty. Avoid sketchy third party sellers on sites like eBay or Craigslist.

When purchased from a legit retailer, the 50 Inch Light Bar will include the light bar itself as well as basic wiring and hardware for installation. Optional mounting brackets, switches, and wiring harnesses are generally sold separately.

How Much Does the KC 50 Inch Light Bar Cost?

The MSRP for the KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar is $1599.99. However, authorized retailers usually sell it for $100-150 less than MSRP.

Here are some example prices from major sellers:

• Amazon – $1449.99
• 4 Wheel Parts – $1459.99
• Quadratec – $1499.99

Pricing may fluctuate slightly based on promotions and availability. But you can generally find the standard 50 inch light bar for around $1400-1500.

Additional costs to factor in for your full setup:

• Wiring harness – $50-150
• Light bar mounts – $75-200
• Installation accessories – $50-150
• Switches and fuses – $25-100

So all in you can expect to spend $1700-2000 for the complete installed light bar system.

Vehicle Compatibility

The KC 50 Inch Light Bar is designed to work on most trucks, Jeeps, UTVs, tractors, and other 12V DC powered vehicles.

Some key compatibility specs:

• Voltage – 10-30V DC
• Wattage – 300 watts
• Waterproof – IP68 rating

As long as your vehicle has a 12V electrical system and space to mount a 50 inch light bar, the KC model should work well.

The light bar comes with universal mounting plates to adapt to different installation locations. You may need specific mounting brackets or adapters to fit certain vehicles.

How to Install the KC 50 Inch Light Bar

Installing a 50 inch light bar requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips for proper installation:

• Pick mounting locations – Consider roof, bumper, A-pillar or custom light bar mount. Ensure good visibility.
• Wiring – Run 14 gauge minimum wire from battery through firewall to light bar. Add fuse box.
• Waterproofing – Seal all connections and wires to prevent water damage or shorts.
• Aim lights – Adjust angle to get ideal beam distance and light coverage.
• Test operation – Check that wiring is correct and lights function properly before finishing installation.
• Finish installation – Secure light bar tightly using all mounting points. Check for vibration. Add switch.

For a detailed visual guide, watch installation videos on YouTube or the KC HiLiTES website. Having an experienced installer complete the wiring and mounting is highly recommended.

Materials and Durability

The KC 50 Inch Light Bar is extremely well built using high quality materials:

• Housing – Die cast aluminum with powder coat finish
• Lens – Optically clear polycarbonate
• Connectors – Corrosion resistant gold plated terminals
• Internal parts – Stainless steel hardware

Every component is engineered for strength, corrosion resistance, and durability.

With its rugged construction, IP68 waterproof rating, and vibration-resistant mounting, the KC light bar can handle virtually any riding conditions – mud, snow, rain, dust, etc. Owners report the lights lasting for many years of hard off-road use.

Manufacturer Warranty

KC HiLiTES provides a class-leading 5 year warranty on their 50 Inch Light Bar. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for 5 years from original purchase date.

Warranty exclusions apply for:

• Improper installation
• Damage from crashes or misuse
• Normal wear and tear

The warranty makes it easy to get replacement parts or service if you have any problems. Contact KC or the dealer you purchased from for warranty claims.

How KC Compares to Other Brands

KC HiLiTES is regarded as one of the leading manufacturers of off-road LED light bars and pods. Here’s how KC compares to some competitors:

• Baja Designs – Excellent quality but very expensive
• Rigid Industries – Rugged lights with great performance
• Nilight – Budget brand with lesser quality control
• Auxbeam – Cheap import lights with mixed reviews

KC provides a great combination of performance, features, and durability at a reasonable price point. You get excellent bang for your buck without compromising too much on quality.

For 50 inch light bars, the KC is brighter than most Rigid models while costing significantly less. If extreme lighting output is needed for little cost, the KC is a top choice.

Lumen Output

The raw lumen output of the KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar is a staggering 50,000 lumens when equipped with 10 Cree XHP70 chips.

This intense brightness makes it one of the most powerful LED light bars you can buy. For reference, here is how it compares:

• Rigid 50″ Dual-Row LED Light Bar – 25,000 lumens
• Baja Designs XL80 – 40,800 lumens
• Nilight 50 Inch – 30,000 lumens

The 50K lumen output gives the KC exceptional reach and brightness for off-road riding. It can illuminate trails nearly a half mile away when conditions are optimal. This much lighting power draws ample wattage, so upgrading your vehicle’s alternator may be required.

Customization Options

One benefit of KC HiLiTES products is the ability to customize the light bar to your specific needs:

• Lenses – Clear or amber color available
• Beam pattern – Spot, flood or combo patterns
• Mounting – Low profile or vertical light bar mounts
• Wiring – Plug-and-play or hardwire harness kits
• Switches – Dash or wireless remote control switches
• Covers – Optional lenses covers for daytime use
• Bracketing – Combine multiple smaller light bars

This versatility allows you to fine tune the lighting performance, appearance, and installation method. Just be aware custom options can add to the total cost.

Waterproofing Ability

With an industry-leading IP68 rating, the KC 50 Inch Light Bar is able to withstand complete submersion in water, even at depths of 1 meter for 1 hour.

This high degree of waterproofing is critical for driving through heavy rain, deep puddles and streams, snow, mud, and other wet conditions.

The entire housing and connections are fully sealed. High quality water-tight wire connectors and gaskets keep moisture out of the sensitive electronics and wiring.

As long as it is properly installed, you can take the KC light bar through virtually any hazardous terrain and weather. Just be sure to rinse off dirt or corrosive mud after each use.

What Do Customer Reviews Say?

Overall, customer reviews of the KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar are very positive. Here are some common praise and complaints:

Pros

• Incredible performance and brightness
• Rugged, waterproof construction
• Clear, uniform beam pattern
• Easy to install mounting system
• Great customer service

Cons

• Very expensive
• Significant power draw can dim headlights
• Glare bothers some oncoming drivers
• Large size limits mounting options
• Not compatible with small ATVs/UTVs

Most reviewers agree the light quality and durability justify the premium price. There are few products that match the ruggedness and illumination of a KC light bar.

Available Discounts

As a premium product, the KC 50 Inch Light Bar rarely goes on sale. But there are a few ways to save:

• Check retailer sites for occasional discounts and coupon codes. Sign up for newsletters to get alerts on deals.
• Buy during seasonal sales like Black Friday or Christmas when retailers may offer 10-20% off or free shipping.
• Join rewards programs from sellers like 4 Wheel Parts for future discounts.
• Save on shipping by combining with other items or choosing slow shipping.
• Buy gently used. Check forums and Craigslist for open box discounts.

Any savings helps offset the initial cost investment in this professional-grade light bar.

Energy Efficiency

While incredibly bright, the KC 50 Inch Light Bar uses energy-efficient Cree LED technology. This gives it excellent light output for the wattage used.

Some key efficiency specs:

• 300 watts power draw
• 50,000 lumens output
• 166 lumens per watt efficacy

The dual row design with alternating spot/flood optics also maximizes usable illumination. Less light is wasted compared to simple flood patterns.

You can further enhance efficiency by:

• Using lower brightness levels when possible
• Adding a voltage regulator to optimize voltage
• Maintaining clean, clear lenses

High power auxiliary lights require heavy electrical draw. But the KC light bar makes the most of the energy needed to achieve that 50K brightness.

Installation Tools Needed

Installing a 50 inch curved light bar requires some specific tools for mounting and wiring:

• Wrench set – For bolting into roof or bumper mounts
• U-bolts – To attach light bar to cross members
• Step bit or drill – For wiring holes into vehicle cab
• Crimping tool – Connecting wire terminations
• Adhesive lined heat shrink – Waterproofing connections
• Utility knife – Cutting and fitting wires/tubing
• Torque wrench – Tightening mounts and bolts
• Grommets – Lining drilled wire holes
• Electrical tape – Wrapping and insulating wires
• Multimeter – Diagnosing electrical issues

While not strictly necessary, a soldering iron, heat gun, and basic welding tools can help achieve a professional install.

Specialized mounting brackets often require drilling or custom fabrication too. Having access to basic shop tools is a big advantage.

Maintenance Tips

Like any vehicle-mounted accessories, the KC 50 Inch Light Bar requires periodic inspection and maintenance to keep it running properly:

• Check mounts – Ensure all brackets and U-bolts are tight before driving. Replace stripped or missing hardware.
• Inspect wiring – Look for loose, corroded or damaged wiring connections. Repair or replace as needed.
• Clean lenses – Use soap and water or lens cleaner to remove dirty lens buildup for optimal light output.
• Check operation – Test lights regularly to confirm proper function. Troubleshoot or replace bad LED chips or circuits as needed.
• Weatherproof – Reapply dielectric grease and sealants to maintain waterproofing for wiring connectors and mounts.

Taking a few minutes periodically to inspect for issues will extend the service life of your light bar and keep it working like new.

Compatible Accessories

To enhance the functionality of your KC 50 Inch Light Bar, there are some very useful available accessories:

• Wiring harnesses – Quickly connect your lights with plug-and-play harnesses
• Light covers – Protect your light bar when not in use
• Lens filters – Change beam color with amber or other colored covers
• Mounting brackets – Adapt your light bar to different locations
• Switches – Control your lights with dash or wireless switches
• Voltage regulator – Get maximum efficiency from your vehicle’s charging system
• Dimmers – Increase compatibility with oncoming traffic

Carefully read specifications to ensure any accessories you buy are correctly sized and rated for your specific KC light bar model.

Off-Road Capabilities

With its rugged die cast aluminum housing, superior waterproofing, and heavy-duty design, the KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar is more than capable for intense off-road use.

Key factors that make this light bar ideal for off-road include:

• Vibration resistance – Stainless mounting hardware absorbs shock and movement when driving on uneven terrain
• Dust/dirt protection – Seals keep particles from entering lens and housing
• Waterproof – Fully sealed electronics and IP68 rating allow driving through streams, mud and heavy rain
• Overbuilt – Components are stronger than the minimum needed for harsh driving conditions
• Modular – Damaged LED segments can be replaced if a section is hit or cracked

The KC light bar is purpose-built for off-road punishment while providing maximum illumination when you need it most.

Quality Control and Testing

In addition to using top-tier materials, KC HiLiTES exerts tight quality control during manufacturing and thoroughly tests products:

• Components are carefully inspected for defects during assembly
• Light bars undergo hot/cold cycling to check operation in temperature extremes
• Output, beam pattern and draw are tested on each unit before shipping
• Sample light bars are vibration tested, submerged in water, and shaken violently to check durability
• Pre-shipping inspections look for any dust/debris, cracked lens sections or loose mounts
• Any products that don’t pass testing get reworked or scrapped

This rigorous process ensures every KC light bar will work flawlessly right out of the box. You can trust it to perform reliably in all conditions.

Conclusion

For those looking to seriously illuminate the trails, fields, or worksites, the KC HiLiTES 50 Inch Light Bar is a top choice. This flagship LED light bar pumps out an epic 50,000 raw lumens to turn the darkest nights into day. Built from top-grade components and engineered to take brutal punishment, it will provide years of powerful off-road lighting.

While the KC 50 inch model sits at the premium end of the pricing scale, the unmatched performance, quality, and 5 year warranty make it worth the investment for the serious off-road enthusiast. Just be sure to get the wiring, switches, and mounting hardware needed to properly install and control this high power light bar.