Re: Head lamp bulbs...

Posted by Tim Cole On 2014/10/13 16:51:41

Hi Russ:

If your lights are really bad then you need to look at the whole system.

Bulbs are the easiest to check: Hold them against a bright white surface. If they are yellowed they are definitely worn out. Bulbs typically lose 50% of capacity with age.

Next is the wiring. Using a voltmeter check the voltage between the bulb base and the negative battery post with the headlights on. If there is more than .2 volts you need to run a grounding pigtail to a good chassis ground. This is called a voltage drop and denotes a bad connection. Also, check the voltage differences across all the main connections you can find. More than .2 volts is a questionable connection.

Another place for trouble is the switch. You can buy 6 volt headlight relays to take the load out of that switch.

Of course the wiring and connections to the lights can also be poor and there are connectors in the light bars and pigtails in the sockets that are troublesome. I think Blevins used to sell a kit for that.

One other option for the reflectors is vacuum plating. This is the same as a sealed beam reflector. Pay careful attention to the seal to prevent tarnishing.

The last 10th series car I did surprised me with very good headlights. It had good bulbs, new wiring, a good switch, and good socket pigtails; so results can be had.

Hope this helps