ATTN: Everyone putting HID's in their halogen setups. STOP IT!

[tk-421]

Hey Violin,

What is your recommendation for folks that are planning on HIDs in their OEM housings? Could painting the whole reflector black help with the glare, or would that screw with light output too much?

I would really like some projectors, but it's way too involved and expensive for me at this point in time.

Any input from you would be appreciated!

[Violin]

Originally Posted by tk-421

Hey Violin,

What is your recommendation for folks that are planning on HIDs in their OEM housings? Could painting the whole reflector black help with the glare, or would that screw with light output too much?

I would really like some projectors, but it's way too involved and expensive for me at this point in time.

Any input from you would be appreciated!

My recommendation is don't do it. I did and was very disappointed with the result. Either do a projector retrofit or save your money.

If you paint the reflector bowl, you'll ruin the headlight. The light still needs to be directed to be useful - its just that the halogen reflector was not designed for HID.

The "I never get flashed" comment cracks me up. I see it on every forum where HID kits are discussed. Why would someone flash someone who obviously has an HID kit - they want even more glare flashed back at them?

I see a lot less HID kits around me these days. My guess is that the cops are cracking down on them.

Don't anyone get their panties in a wad. I know people will continue to put HID bulbs in reflectors that weren't designed for it. Just don't act surprised when everyone else on the road hates your "improvement".

[Meteorite_Marty]

This guy makes a good point.

Has anyone suggested the insurance liability with improperly aimed, non-stock headlights? If someone crashes into you, either because your lights were poorly aimed or too bright, you likely won't be covered. I would think anything safety related has to be installed by a professional, and the parts you use must be approved for your vehicle by the manufacturer, not just some 3rd party stating they are DOT approved and fit your car.

That's my 2 cents.

[eTiMaGo]

Originally Posted by Violin

The "I never get flashed" comment cracks me up. I see it on every forum where HID kits are discussed. Why would someone flash someone who obviously has an HID kit - they want even more glare flashed back at them?

I take twisted pleasure in blinding those blind me... eye for an eye... They might not realize how much of a nuisance they are to other drivers, so thats one way to inform them...

[eTiMaGo]

Originally Posted by camelll

Over here in the states (at least my state) it is illegal to flash your brights at someone even if they have there brights on. You do this to a cop and he can pull you over and issue a ticket.

Wow thats pretty strict...

There's always the backup warning system, extend hand out of open window and raise middle finger Which, I am sure, cops appreciate even less!

[Violin]

Originally Posted by camelll

Since you bring up the legality of these you may want to add that even a retrofitted set of projectors are just as illegal! No matter how good of a job you do on them. They may be less obnoxious then hid in reflector housing but none the less they are just as illegal and just as much as an insurance liability if they find out.

Where did I bring up the legal issue?

I just speculated that the cops in my area may be cracking down on this one.