HID Conversion: 35W vs. 50W; Best H4/9003 bulb type?
Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2007 7:36 am
I want to convert to HIDs and have been reading the HID threads and shopping around, trying to figure out which kit to go with. Have some questions:Anyone install a 50W HID kit yet? Just when I thought I new what I wanted, I saw the 50W kits on eBay.I know that aftermarket HID conversions are illegal, but anyone know the actual DOT compliant/SAE Standards for headlamp output in the U.S.? I'm leaning toward 5000k or 6000k color temp. A 35W kit would have 2800-3100 lumens output; the 50W kit would have 3800-4000 lumens output.Bulbs: I don't want to lose my high beams since I'm a driver by profession and like 75% of my driving is at night. (BTW, 2004 Base w/ M&T bought new 09/09/04 now has 200,808 miles.) I really don't use the high beams often, but I like having 'em at my disposal.Which bulb type do you recommend?- Hi/Lo with Xenon for the low beam and a separate halogen for the high?- Bi-Xenon with the solenoid activated shield?- Bi-Xenon with the telescopic movement?And for comparison, anyone know the lumens output for each beam of a standard 55W/60W halogen headlight bulb (H4/9003)?