Headlight Upgrades

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Feb 20, 2009 | 11:23 PM

#11

iclick

Extreme HDF Member

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 11,615

Likes: 50

From: Baton Rouge, LA

Quote:

Originally Posted by mcrider1

Also, if you run big wattage like 80/100, your wires may not carry enough juice to give you all of the watts.

This is true in some applications, but not FLH models. The low-beam circuit is designed to carry 105w and the high-beam wiring has the same OD, so I assume that it is the same gauge size. If so, it can handle the 100w high-beam output from these bulbs. I didn't cut the wires to check, but I doubt if the wiring core is a different size.

OTOH, low-beams are designed to carry up to 105w, so if you increase the output of the low-beam bulb you may go over the designed amperage for that gauge wire. I haven't checked the spec but it is possible. Again, to be cautious just install a simple automotive relay if you want to run high-powered low-beams and passing lamps.

Feb 21, 2009 | 08:39 AM

#12

WireDawg

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2007

Posts: 1,172

Likes: 0

From: WI/ The State of Harley

Quote:

Originally Posted by flyslow

I checked the lighting thread in the shop area and this has not been addressed.

Has anyone here put a larger headlight bulb (H4) into their stock HD headlamp assembly?

I am considering putting a 55/100 or a 100/130 bulb in the housing.

I guesstimate that this will add about a 4 amp pull to the electrical system. The alternator will easily handle this load but I am concerned about the actual headlight wiring and switch on the handlebars. Also, will the heat created by the larger bulb cause any problems with the headlight housing itself?

Thanks in advance. . .

Sure did !! got a 60/100 H-4 in for 2 years now.........never had an issue & the grand total spent was $ 8.00..........SideNote, I put in a SNOWMOBILE bulb, because they hold up well to the increased vibration..............$.02 WD