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Re: Actually there are a couple of kits that work- (archive)
[ Follow Ups ] [ 8-series (E31) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]
Posted by RogerL on July 01, 2001 at 19:57:08:

In Reply to: Are Xenon headlights even available for E31? posted by Jane M. on July 01, 2001 at 07:24:16:

I believe that they were offered in 99 for about the last 200 cars of so, and are a variation on the present ellipsoid system. The difference between HID - High Intensity Discharge(not "Xenon lamps" btw, xenon is used only to fire the normally less excitable krypton mixture)and normal lamps is the gas mixture burns from an arc at a much higher temperature (thus brightness), but uses much less energy since it's so efficient and has less gas in it. This lamp needs to be fired at a much higher voltage through a fire starter (xenon) supplied by a ballast, not wholly unlike a fluorescent or neon lamp. When you watch these lights come on, you can see the start fire for a second or so, then the real gas ignite the bright blue-white. Flash-to-pass lamps remain 'normal' because HIDs just don't ignite fast enough with the 1-2 sec start up.

In the E31, there is little space for the ballast, about the size of a cigarette pack and the high voltage wiring to the lamp - but it can be done.

In fact, the ellipsoid lens design really lends itself to this lamp, as most HID systems (including BMW's) incorporate it anyway. Otherwise, a focusing reflector is incorporated into the lamp itself. Retrofitting is not hard but does require some reasonable mechanical ability and electrical knowledge. Most retrofit kits are not DOT approved, since in the USA, these lamps must be accompanied by an auto leveler device, which is very difficult to retrofit unless an original lamp/unit system is found.

The kits cost around $600 and I know of two being made that will work - with either US or Euro lamp systems (the kits are different for each, but available). See these two sites : HID AutoLamps or Phoenix MicroLite
At Phoenix, you should talk to Bob about the 9006 or H1 kits ... I think I'd prefer the former based on my study.

Good Luck - Roger

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