Changing bulbs in headlights

Ok, guys...I saw some old posts about replacing yor bulbs with 9005 or 9006......and something having to use a dremel/file. What exactly has to be done to put the 9005 or 9006 bulbs in?


TIA

[SubaSteevo]

I was going to try to describe it, but this website sums it up best
http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main/Upgrade/More_light.htm

If you still have any questions ask me, I was one of the first to do the mod.

[nordique14]

I did the conversion a month or so ago. I only needed a file and a sharp knife (and a band-aid).


Make sure you don't touch the glass with your hands. The oil on your skin will reduce the life of the bulb. If you do get your prints on the bulb, clean it with a little rubbing alcohol before you put it in the headlight.

Matt

[nordique14]

Just thought I would revive this thread as a service to all the noobs about there.

The light from the stock system is terrible. It's dark way early now and the extra light from this conversion is fantasic (and my headlights are pretty clear to start with). I suspect the bulb life of the the 9005 will only be about 1/2 to 1/3 of the 9006. But at only $10 per bulb, it's worth it. I love being able to see the road at night.

Matt

[Matthewmongan]

whats the easiest way to clean the skuzz off of the lenses

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by Matthewmongan
whats the easiest way to clean the skuzz off of the lenses

Any fine scratch remover or plastic polish will work.

[Matthewmongan]

would i have to take it apart or is the oxidization on the outside?

there's a reason a 9006 light doesn't fit in a 9005 socket. A 9006 bulb is a low beam and a 9005 is a high beam. You're effectively driving around with your high beams on, which is illegal (at least here in cali). I say you upgrade the wiring and relays instead.

[SubaSteevo]

Originally posted by THAWA
there's a reason a 9006 light doesn't fit in a 9005 socket. A 9006 bulb is a low beam and a 9005 is a high beam. You're effectively driving around with your high beams on, which is illegal (at least here in cali). I say you upgrade the wiring and relays instead.

No, you're not. A high beam and a low beam have totally different projection patterns. It is the fact that high beams are aimed higher that makes it illegal to drive with them on, you'd be blinding everyone. I've yet to have one person flash me because my lights were too bright. Why? Because my headlights are properly aligned.

[ensteele]

I would agree with BurgundyBeast. I did this conversion to my SVXs because I can finally see at night. I have not been flashed to turn down my lights once. It is great.

Originally posted by BurgundyBeast


No, you're not. A high beam and a low beam have totally different projection patterns. It is the fact that high beams are aimed higher that makes it illegal to drive with them on, you'd be blinding everyone. I've yet to have one person flash me because my lights were too bright. Why? Because my headlights are properly aligned.

Ah, I was thinking something completly different but yes that's correct. Though it still doesn't change the fact that you're using the wrong bulb for your low beam setup.

[SubaSteevo]

Originally posted by THAWA
Though it still doesn't change the fact that you're using the wrong bulb for your low beam setup.

True, but I like breaking rules

[immortal_suby]

I have to agree this is one of the best things I have done on my svx.

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by Matthewmongan
would i have to take it apart or is the oxidization on the outside?

Just clean the outside. It makes a huge difference if it has never been done before.

Another important thing that nobody has mentioned is that this 'high beam bulb in the low beam socket' mod is ONLY good for cars with a PROJECTION HEADLAMP system. The SVX has projectors ofr the low beams, so it's all good. If it had a regular lamp, it might create too much glare for oncoming drivers.

- Jim