High Beam Bulbs vs. Low??
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 753
Likes: 2
From: Denville NJ
High Beam Bulbs vs. Low??
I seems that many of you have put high beam bulbs in the low beam locations and have had good results. Is there any downside such as reduced beam focus, etc.? Thanks
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 773
Likes: 44
From: San Francisco Bay area CA
I first did this mod when I had my '95 BMW 540 w/ stock projector-type lights. Made a noticeable difference, which comes from moving from 55 watts to 65 I believe? I just bought two high beam bulbs as I plan on trying this mod on my '02. 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,409
Likes: 34
From: St. Louis Missouri
I am running the Toshiba HIR 9011 bulb in my low beam socket. It is much brighter then a Sylvania Silverstar and I have not been flashed once by oncoming motorist. It is a cheap way to gain a lot more light from the factory set up. I say go for it.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 773
Likes: 44
From: San Francisco Bay area CA
Just finished doing the mod...
Modified a couple high beam bulbs this evening, and the additional brightness is very noticable - well worth the effort. Took about 2 hours beginnning to end. Just be careful not to remove too much of the top tab as this provides a measure of stability when the bulb is in its socket. The real test will be driving at night and seeing if I get any flashes, but I seriously doubt I will - the pattern and height looks about the same as with a low beam bulb. Good luck all!
