n00b question...

[djfuji]

sorry if this seems retarded... what's the difference between an HID kit and just getting HID bulbs? I'm new to this "mod" scene and i'm looking at changing out the headlights... :iono:

[Kaotic Lazagna]

i'm pretty sure someone else can answer this question better than i can, but the wiring is different between stock and an HID kit, and there is a ballast that is needed. just getting the bulbs may melt the stock wiring (i think).

[07typeS]

yea i think the way it works is it takes the stock wiring and uses that as a trigger almost, powers the ballast, and takes the direct hookup to the battery and thats what powers the bulb....

someone else can explain it better im sure...

**edit** upon reading the ballast kinda acts as the brain, controls voltage, controls current, things like that.......

[liquidx084]

sorry if this seems retarded... what's the difference between an HID kit and just getting HID bulbs? I'm new to this "mod" scene and i'm looking at changing out the headlights... :iono:

The HID conversion kit means it's the HID bulbs, the wiring, and the ballast. You need the ballast because it regulates how much voltage runs to the bulb. I've seen people who put just the bulbs in and it melted the headlight housing and socket where the bulb is put in. So, if you're getting an HID kit make sure you're not getting some "good" deal on eBay. A co-worker of mine got 2 sets for about $250 total and one of the ballast already went to shit on him. Like they say, you get what you paid for.

[eco]

Maybe he means the cheap H4s that state they are HID's,in that case they are not real,Hid's do not contain a filiment.

[Katana]

I think that's the case.

[djfuji]

Maybe he means the cheap H4s that state they are HID's,in that case they are not real,Hid's do not contain a filiment.


yes! that's what i'm confused about... so, are the H4s safe to get or will they mess the headlights up?

[tca4]

depends what brand you get? am i right guys?

[ChinoCharles]

Wikipedia - HID
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_intensity_discharge

The Automotive Lighting FAQ
http://faqlight.carpassion.info/

When in doubt, learn.

[liquidx084]

Maybe he means the cheap H4s that state they are HID's,in that case they are not real,Hid's do not contain a filiment.

No, it was an actual HID kit but, it was of crap quality. It wasn't just the HID style bulb.