Reduce the voltage drop to the bulbs
By bypassing the standard wiring with relays the voltage to the headlamp can increase, giving improved performance from any bulb. Typically standard wiring is relatively thin and a 1 volt drop is common to the bulbs. When replaced with higher capacity cable and relays this voltage drop can be deduced. A 10% drop in voltage (1.2V) equals 33% drop in light output.
Install upgrade bulbs (+30% & +50%)
Installing compliant upgrade bulbs is an effective way of improving your headlamp's performance. Usually the bulbs can be replaced without additional help and the increase in light is noticeable. The +30% (Xenon) is an cost effective option while the +50% (Xenon plus) achieve the largest increase in light output. Confirm the bulbs are SAE compliant.
Install blue bulbs
While sold as upgrade bulbs the blue bulbs only increase the color in temperature of the light output (whiter), which gives the impression of more light. Typically a blue bulb produces the same amount of light as a standard bulb. Again make sure the bulbs are compliant.
Install upgraded headlamps
Upgrade headlamps are also available however some may be for styling only and may not necessarily increase performance. Gas discharge may be an option and may be an upgrade available for the factory or aftermarket. Again it is essential to ensure the the lamps comply with our regulations.
Have the lamps professionally aligned
By adjusting the lamps correctly will provide an increase in performance, allowing the lamps to work as designed. Just because the car passes a WOF does not mean the light are aimed correctly. Have the headlamps checked with a beamsetter to ensure efficient performance.
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Install higher power consumption bulbs
By installing higher wattage bulbs you can increase headlamp performance, due to more light being produced. It is illegal in the US to install non-compliant bulbs (i.e. non standard power consumption). Other downsides to high power include higher temperatures (melted headlamps and plugs) shorter life (up to 80% less), high cost (usually twice the price), and more stray sight due to the filament being larger. May be used for off-road purposes.
Install a gas discharge conversion kit
There are kits available i which you replace the halogen bulb with a gas discharge bulb. The gas discharge light source is 2.5 times as bright as the halogen bulb and does not focus correctly within the headlamp, as the headlamp was not designed for this bulb. This creates excessive glare (up to 100 times), which blinds oncoming drivers, and is very dangerous.
Install dark blue bulbs
Blue bulbs are deigned to reduce the yellow content of the light, so to make the light look wither. Only a slight tint is allowed before the bulb is below the minimum output required by the regulations. Some manufacturers take the tint further to produce an even whiter light output. This reduces the light output and is dangerous. These bulbs are not compliant. |
