Re: Headlight Conversion (archive)

In 1988 Federal regulation would not allow the smaller diameter high beam headlamps fitted to European models. The German made Hella brand 5 3/4" H1/H4 European bulb conversion is among the most popular solutions, as the Hella technology couples outstanding performance, precision cut lenses, and an affordable price; making use of a 55w H1 and 55/60w H4 bulb. A plethora of optional bulbs are available for the Hella system, 100w H1 and 55w H4s are a popular upgrade; though the 7.5 amp fuses need to be swapped for 15 amp fuses. You will find that the standard 55w and 55/60w bulbs will be sufficient. Hella claims a 1,400' Fringe illumination range improvement when switching to the High beams and a 450' low beam improvement when switching from the factory sealed beams to a quartz headlamp (5 3/4 H1/H4.)

A second choice is a complete European grille and bucket system, using 7" and 5 3/4" beams. The European configuration can make use of the intricate washing system that was fitted on European models, but specifically requires a flat face beam. The European set up with or without wipers is considerably more expensive and may only provide a marginal improvement over the Hella 5 3/4" H1/H4.

The Hella 5 3/4" H1/H4 is a do it your self project that should take 50 minutes. The 5 3/4" H1/H4 bulbs run about $45.00 each and are available through Motorworks and Bavarian Auto Sport. The 7" and 5 3/4" European grille and bucket system may be available through a specialty importer like Maximillian Importing Co.,

Follow Ups:

Re: Headlight Conversion Rundel 08:12 1/04/2001 (0)
Re: Headlight Conversion Rundel 08:11 1/04/2001 (1)
- Re: Headlight Conversion rcbmwsf 14:40 1/04/2001 (0)

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