The ultimate headlight upgrade H4 (not LED or HID)

Derp, sorry and thank you

 

My harness just arrived. Looking forward to installing it this weekend. Where did you mount the relays?

 

I mounted mine right next to the spot on the rail with female threads.

 

High, away from heat as much as possible, and always in sight so they're easy to remember. I also used zip-ties to affix just because it was quick and easy.

 

The harness is installed! Can't wait to go for a test drive tonight after dark.

Forgive the stupid question. But what would happen if one of the Osram Super Bright bulbs were to burn out and I had to swap in one of the stock wattage bulbs short term as a replacement? I bought a backup set of bulbs so hopefully this would never have to happen but just curious.

 

brighter than normal and probably shorter life than normal

 

Yep. Brighter that stock and shortly reduced life. Best is to have a spare set of Superbrights on hand. Bulbs should always be changed in pairs, as once one fails the other will be close behind and bulbs dim over time.

 

Why would a normal bulb have a shorter lifespan with this setup? Voltage is the same. This mod enables higher amp draw. I’ve been running it for about four months on original set of high wattage bulbs. They kick ass for sure

I see no reason the mod would result in decreased lifespan for a normal bulb. Prove me wrong

 

The harness reduces voltage drop, which means increased voltage to the bulb. Running bulbs at higher voltage increases output and reduces lifespan. It isn’t substantial, but it is reduced over not using a harness.

 

This mod works BECAUSE voltage is not "the same." Connecting the headlights directly to the battery via a large-gauge wiring harness eliminates voltage drops inherent in the OEM wiring. That's what enables "higher amp draw," because I=V/R. It's also what shortens bulb life, because they burn brighter/hotter.

 

Overdriving bulbs definitely reduces lifespan. I’m pretty skeptical there is a significant voltage delta in this circuit compared to stock. I agree there is less voltage drop in the ultimate circuit but doubt it would result in a significant reduction in lifespan

That said I thank you for all your work on this topic. You have helped many and I am very grateful. My nights spent driving are much more enjoyable and safer. I wish more would embrace this strategy vs just flooding bright light everywhere and blinding all including themselves with reflective flashback

True voltage measurements would prove me wrong or not. Not that it really matters

 

@crashnburn80 you seem like the one who’d know. I’ve got some old cibies h4 conversion headlights for my Tacoma. (Stole them off my mr2) one of the rubber boots is Mia. Know where I can locate one? Odered Osrams and put my harness in. So trucks ready for them. Just need a boot

 

I wish I had more help to offer, but I don't. I'd first start by pulling a boot off the Toyota and seeing if it fit the Cebie. Lots of universal boots sold online. If the Toyota unit fits, it is highly likely an aftermarket universal boot would also fit without needing to shop for a specialty part.

 

Yea I’ve got a boot that kind of worked. But it’s not the tightest seal.

 

Just finished my install with the Headlight Services Harness and Osram Superbrights. I can actually see the road at night now! Now I just need to aim them properly (they seem to shine a bit high). I can’t believe the difference.

 

Well, after 4+ years with this setup one of my 100w H4's finally died. I THINK I ordered extras originally.. but where in the garage they are is unknown. What's the new/best place to buy replacements? I see the 85/80 is a viable option as well.. either would work for me. Thanks.

 

Bulb America has stock on the 100W Super Brights.

https://www.bulbamerica.com/product...super-bright-premium-off-road-automotive-bulb

 

thanks! Going to dig through the garage when I get home, otherwise ordering another couple sets from there.

 

I was afraid of the same issue so my bulbs stayed in the box they were shipped in and I stuck them above the door in my shed where nothing else would fit. Of course now I have moved and they are downstairs in the new house basement....somewhere....

 

I swear I did something similar. lol I feel like I've seen the box while looking for other truck parts.. lol