mrkanda

iTrader: (3)

Hi All, My headlights just started burning out. At first I thought is was just the age of the bulbs, so I put in new HO Halogens. But they both burned out in a matter of days. It must be a short. I had bought some crap Xenon bulbs off eBay a few years ago and they melted my connectors. Since then I replaced the connectors with higher guage aftermarket ones and have had no problems for about 3 years, but now the problem.

So, I am wondering, is now a good time to switch to E36 lights and/or go with the 9007 upgrade? I'm pretty shure I have to troubleshoot the short and possibly replace the headlight harnesses/connectors/relays... but I'm thinking it would also save time to do the swap at the same time. What do you guys think? Thanks.

Mark

heresmymind

e36 projector's FTW

mrkanda

iTrader: (3)

Well, I tried correcting the porblem by resplicing the wires, thinking that my engine bay wash last month probably got into something and caused things to short out. It worked for a day, but then my driver's side brand new bulb just burnt out again. What should I do?

Do I need to replace the whole wiring harness for the headlights back to the under-hood fuse box? Do I need to replace relays, the sockets? What? How should I test these things? I used to do some low voltage electrical work in homes, so I know something of electric work, but this is yet beyond me. Any advice?

I do need lights, and the stockers have to work before I can upgrade them anyway.

Thanks,
-Mrkanda

Jbr8k

iTrader: (8)

You can actually buy upgraded harnesses with thicker gauge wire at your local auto parts store, I even saw 9007 adapters if you wanted to go that route.

LvR

So you're a sparky heh? ............... yet you don't even mention the actual voltages measured on the bulbs?

My bet is the alternator is frying not only your bulbs but also the battery and a few other sensitive pieces of electronics.

What is the alternator output voltage? (measured on the alternator) - both at idle speed and 3000rpm?

What is the battery voltage at those engine speeds with the lights switched on?

What is the bulb terminal voltages at those engine speeds with the lights switched on?