Headlights

[WCM]

I'll have to admit, It is allot of fun asking the question and getting all the feedback on all subjects. All very appreciated.....

When I picked up the car 3 months ago, it had the original headlights (1981). I went and picked up standard lamps for $16 each. At the time I didn't have in mind that I would be doing much driving at night. Well, needless to say, that has changed. Now I'm looking for a LED replacement set. All input would be great.......

Thanks,

WCM

[baltobernie]

I think you'll find that if you post questions in the relevant section, you'll get better and quicker responses. Doing this also helps the Search function work better for guys coming in after you.

Here are some headlight improvement threads you'll find using that Search tab above. A popular refrain is to ensure ample voltage and current at the headlamp socket before commencing to upgrade the lamp itself.

http://www.fiatspider.com/f15/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=31808
http://www.fiatspider.com/f15/viewtopic ... 7&p=202720
http://www.fiatspider.com/f15/viewtopic ... 8&p=194509

[WCM]

I will. Thanks

[TheBender]

I don't have much feedback for you yet, like you....I had some great night drives a week ago and my LED headlights arrive tomorrow. I went with a set from Bayless as I was ordering a few other things from them too.

[joelittel]

Bender, any chance you would be able to post some before/after pics of your LED upgrade?

WCM, I plan to upgrade all the lights on my car and have built a relay board to handle it.



I have 6 relays. 1-3 handle the headlights, high beams and driving lights. I hope 4-6 are enough to cover the blinkers, instrument cluster and a few additional interior lights. The whole thing is on a breaker, so I can disconnect it with the flip of a switch. I also like how modular it is, meaning that any part can be upgraded at any time.

I followed this guy's build almost exactly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... vFHA1xY10w

I need to figure out a way to secure it to the car and protect it from other items in the trunk, but those are minor details.

[TX82FIAT]

Wow, I'll have to check out the relay video. Looks really nice. Why did you select the trunk for the relay location? Did you put a relay on the ignition?

[joelittel]

I have not put a relay on the ignition, yet, but the goal is to work my way through the entire electrical system.... someday.

I chose the trunk for a handful of reasons. One being that I wasn’t sure if the plastic I mounted my relays to could hand the heat. Another being that I plan to turbo my car... someday, and didn’t want to mount and remount my relay/fuse board more than once. There isn’t a lot of extra space in my engine bay and without knowing what space I’ll need for the turbo bits I didn’t want to add anything that I’d have to move later. I also wanted a relay board I could “grow into” so it’s bigger than it currently needs to be.

Plus, the minimal clutter look upfront has grown on me.

I also thought having everything tucked nicely in the trunk looked cool. Eventually it’ll probably all get moved to where the spare tire is currently, but for now it is fine where it is.

My backseat has been converted into a parcel bench with two cubbie-style storage bins so The trunk has been reserved for the car cover, custom hard shell boot cover (prototype still working out details), tools and roadside repair materials.

Although it’s been a while since I’ve had to make any roadside repairs! Knock on wood.