HID lights as aftermarket install...

cosmic88

cosmic88

Well-known member
Sep 15, 2010
436
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Florida
I have not done much of any research into these HID head lamps but I can only imagine these require a special lens to focus the intense light discharge. I know some folks are installing the ballasts and new bulbs but using the original factory housing / reflector. These fucking lights are almost blinding at night if you happen to be infront of some douche who installed the new bulbs and not the complete upgrade.

Are there laws on the books concerning this? I should say, enforcable laws... it sucks that it seems to be legal to sell such rediculously bright bulbs knowing they are being installed into the wrong equipment?

I think the next asshole who blinds me with that setup is going to get a blinding experience of his own.
 
antichrist

antichrist

Well-known member
Sep 7, 2004
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Atlanta, GA
cosmic88 said:
Are there laws on the books concerning this? I should say, enforcable laws... it sucks that it seems to be legal to sell such rediculously bright bulbs knowing they are being installed into the wrong equipment?
Click to expand...
If you install a complete 7" round HID assembly in a Series or Defender it's legal. For D1's, RR, etc, that have rectangular lights, they are illegal in all states per FMVSS 108.

Here's more detailed information; http://landroverforums.com/forum/modifications-33/information-retrofitting-h-i-d-headlamps-39755/

And you're 1/2 right about why bulb retrofits are illegal. The bulb, reflector, and lens are all designed to work as a unit, HID or Halogen, but not a mix of components. The kits are mixing components.
The more technical explanations are on Daniel Stern lighting website.
 
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KyleT

KyleT

Well-known member
Mar 28, 2007
6,059
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Fort Worth, TEXAS
yes and IIRC it is a federal crime (USDOT), very few states have state DOT laws, so enforcement is splotchy at best.

you can however be held responsible under the law, now if you actually will is another story...

there are tons of people around here that put them in the low and high beams and drive around with both on. i have been sooo tempted to hit the 4k's on the roof rack at them, but usually im trying to not be all starry eyed. luckily in the miata i am low enough to pass right under the micro sun they are attempting to harness....
 
cosmic88

cosmic88

Well-known member
Sep 15, 2010
436
0
Florida
ptschram said:
Cosmo-print the FMVSS that addresses this issue and wave it around while you're screaming :Citizen's arrest" and let us all know how it works out for you.
Click to expand...

Ha ha... can I borrow your dep'ty Fife badge?

I certainly have bigger fish to fry in life but when you do something dangerous and completely selfish (like blinding others) then I get all riled up.
 
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