Creating the perfect TL headlight... Another headlight clearing adventure...
#241
A J35A8 EG civic is in
Originally Posted by Kennedy
See post 187... but that's not the feedback from the BMW community in the research I've done. Many of those run as Daytime Running Lights for years, and the most complaints I've seen is from folks with failed ballasts... which the universal answer is to replace it with the one from vibelights for $10.
What to do, what to do.
Can't please everyone.
As for 24 hours usage now... Headlights are near causing accidents. People pull up, look, pull up a bit more, look some more.... almost break there neck lookin, then get honked at when the light turns green becasue they're not pating attention. That's the Angel Eyese I'm sure.
ZKW is unreal at night. The cutoff os so sharp, it's like a freaking laser beam... a laser beam mounted to the head of a shark for that matter.
Soon as I figure out how to take good night picture with the d40, I'll snap some.
What to do, what to do.
Can't please everyone.
As for 24 hours usage now... Headlights are near causing accidents. People pull up, look, pull up a bit more, look some more.... almost break there neck lookin, then get honked at when the light turns green becasue they're not pating attention. That's the Angel Eyese I'm sure.
ZKW is unreal at night. The cutoff os so sharp, it's like a freaking laser beam... a laser beam mounted to the head of a shark for that matter.
Soon as I figure out how to take good night picture with the d40, I'll snap some.
Kennedy those lights look sick.. I think I want to do the ZKW swap too.. Ill be waitin for those ZKW cutoff pics and night pics
#242
The Golden One
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Kennedy you need to provide us with a write-up on how to take the lense off the E36 projector and make the necessary modifications to get it onto the TL projector.
#243
Former Sponsor
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Originally Posted by sunny201
Ill be waitin for those ZKW cutoff pics and night pics
Done right then following is what the output should look like, notice that the right side projector is from an 05+ TL with slope style cut off and the one on the left has 04 step style cut off.
#245
Here's a little picture I snapped with the iphone this morning... Look how bright the angel eyes are at dusk:
Yep, thats what they look like. Razor sharp cutoff, with the highest intensity AT the cutoff line. Proper headlight aiming is very important To be correct, the SLOPE style projector was introduced in 2006 (04-05's use step). I swapped out my 2006 slope projectors for 2005 step projectors. Teh step projector seems to be the preffered projector for ZKW retro.
Really simple... Buy ZKW lenses from JnC, HidPlanet, or Ebay... Remove lens from projector and install:
Night pics of ZKdubs soon.
I called the guys at Umnitza and asked about intensity fade. They refute JnC comment (as I would expect), but they did imply your comment, that the mercury/phoshhorous LIKES to be used and get brighter with time... and they are rated at 20,000 hours use. I'm still on the fence, but I'm gonna run em as DRLs for a little while, just for show.
Originally Posted by JnC
Done right then following is what the output should look like, notice that the right side projector is from an 05+ TL with slope style cut off and the one on the left has 04 step style cut off.
Originally Posted by Ilya
Kennedy you need to provide us with a write-up on how to take the lense off the E36 projector and make the necessary modifications to get it onto the TL projector.
Night pics of ZKdubs soon.
Originally Posted by sunny201
...if not brighter but i think that my mind is playing tricks on me)
#246
The Golden One
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You said you made something custom to hold the ZKW lense in place if I recall correctly. That's what I was refering to?
Originally Posted by Kennedy
I made the spacers you need to use the ZKW lens and installed that beauty, along with the Philips 85122+ bulb.
#247
When installing the ZKW lens, you need to place a very small (as in 1 mm) spacer between the lens and the lens holder. The spacer creates the near perfect alignment to achieve the sharpest light cutoff.
To create this spacer, I took the OE lens, and traced it on an old DVD plastic case. I then trimmed out the circle, and trimmed it further until it fit inside the lens holder.
You then commence to trimming out the center of the plastic circle until you're left with a plastic "washer" that's about 3mm wide.
Pop that washer/spacer into the lens holder, install ZKW lens, install chtrome retaining bracket. Done.
Fire up the projector and test at 30 feet. If the cutoff is not sharp, rotate the the lens 90 degrees and try again.
It's that easy.
To create this spacer, I took the OE lens, and traced it on an old DVD plastic case. I then trimmed out the circle, and trimmed it further until it fit inside the lens holder.
You then commence to trimming out the center of the plastic circle until you're left with a plastic "washer" that's about 3mm wide.
Pop that washer/spacer into the lens holder, install ZKW lens, install chtrome retaining bracket. Done.
Fire up the projector and test at 30 feet. If the cutoff is not sharp, rotate the the lens 90 degrees and try again.
It's that easy.
#249
King of NYC
iTrader: (6)
Kennedy, great look you have there! The CF is sure to set in motion a new style. I was on the fence whether to copy you but I kept mine as is. It really goes with the car.
I declare December angel-eye month!! 3 of us did it in 1 month! That's crazy! You're right, it turns heads everywhere. I think we're the first among the 04-06s the other dudes had the 4 ring kit on Type-Ss.
I declare December angel-eye month!! 3 of us did it in 1 month! That's crazy! You're right, it turns heads everywhere. I think we're the first among the 04-06s the other dudes had the 4 ring kit on Type-Ss.
#250
A J35A8 EG civic is in
Originally Posted by Kennedy
I called the guys at Umnitza and asked about intensity fade. They refute JnC comment (as I would expect), but they did imply your comment, that the mercury/phoshhorous LIKES to be used and get brighter with time... and they are rated at 20,000 hours use. I'm still on the fence, but I'm gonna run em as DRLs for a little while, just for show.
#251
Safety Car
iTrader: (3)
Originally Posted by Kennedy
To be correct, the SLOPE style projector was introduced in 2006 (04-05's use step). I swapped out my 2006 slope projectors for 2005 step projectors. Teh step projector seems to be the preffered projector for ZKW retro.
What's the reason/difference for the different projector? Is the slope vs step referring to the reflective portion of the projector?
Very nice work you've done there!
#252
Originally Posted by KN_TL
Kennedy,
What's the reason/difference for the different projector? Is the slope vs step referring to the reflective portion of the projector?
Very nice work you've done there!
What's the reason/difference for the different projector? Is the slope vs step referring to the reflective portion of the projector?
Very nice work you've done there!
See the difference in the "haknslash" pictures? The light "steps" up in 2004/2005 (left) but slopes up (right). The preffered cutoff is the older 04/05 step version with ZKW lens retro. Step seems to make a slightly cleaner cutoff line with the ZKW swap. I didn't compare, I just went with the experts advice.
http://www.hidplanet.com/forums/view...498&highlight=
#254
Originally Posted by BLACKURA_NY
first time visiting this thread in a while. impressive
i think... the best headlights on a 3G yet? im feeling them
what bulbs do you intend on putting in ? temp?
i think... the best headlights on a 3G yet? im feeling them
what bulbs do you intend on putting in ? temp?
Dem's big words. I think they're the best on a 3G TL EVER... but only because they're mine. I certainly will claim the title of most WORK done on a set of headlights. I always thought ChicoOG's RRP colormatched with ZKW were awesome, part of the inspiration for me to go do a bit more. DGP, RRP, adn KBP look so nice body color matched opposed to the gray I used, but body coloring WDP would have been plain too much.
Like a 5 year old, I have an answer/justification for everything.
I prefer the older style headlight:
- higher mounted 55W fogs opposed to lower mounted (TSX style) 35W fogs on the 2007. OG TL
- The new headlights double angel eye setup is really cool looking, but very BMWesque... The older style with one ring is really unique, never seen that before. It should keep the "your biting on BMW shit" wanker comments away.
I'm ot the first with ZKW, not the first to colormatch, not the first to led, not the first to mask the reflector lens, and rocky beat me to the punch to be the first 04/06 angel eye. First with CF accents, First to colormatch the fog "nipple"... and first to "do it all at once".
I used Phillips 85122+ bulbs. They're considered somewhere between 4300-5000K. I chose them because they are 2-300 lumens brighter than anything else out there. No they're not "OMFG my headlights are blue" blue. ZKW is about optimum light output for the most effective headlight you can have, not adding color at the expense of output.
I've only raised the bar for the next guy.
#256
Safety Car
iTrader: (3)
Originally Posted by Kennedy
It has to do with cutoff shield design.
See the difference in the "haknslash" pictures? The light "steps" up in 2004/2005 (left) but slopes up (right). The preffered cutoff is the older 04/05 step version with ZKW lens retro. Step seems to make a slightly cleaner cutoff line with the ZKW swap. I didn't compare, I just went with the experts advice.
http://www.hidplanet.com/forums/view...498&highlight=
See the difference in the "haknslash" pictures? The light "steps" up in 2004/2005 (left) but slopes up (right). The preffered cutoff is the older 04/05 step version with ZKW lens retro. Step seems to make a slightly cleaner cutoff line with the ZKW swap. I didn't compare, I just went with the experts advice.
http://www.hidplanet.com/forums/view...498&highlight=
Thanks!
#257
For anyone wanting to do the carbon fiber headlight mod, I have complete b-pillar cover leftover from this project, MORE than enough to do another set of headlights...
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-parts-sale-361/fs-carbon-fiber-trim-custom-projects-383497/
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-parts-sale-361/fs-carbon-fiber-trim-custom-projects-383497/
#258
Originally Posted by rockyfeller
Kennedy, great look you have there! The CF is sure to set in motion a new style. I was on the fence whether to copy you but I kept mine as is. It really goes with the car.
I declare December angel-eye month!! 3 of us did it in 1 month! That's crazy! You're right, it turns heads everywhere. I think we're the first among the 04-06s the other dudes had the 4 ring kit on Type-Ss.
I declare December angel-eye month!! 3 of us did it in 1 month! That's crazy! You're right, it turns heads everywhere. I think we're the first among the 04-06s the other dudes had the 4 ring kit on Type-Ss.
I guess I missed you guys by a month. I just finished mine last night...
#260
UCFneo
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Hey I had a quick question. Im getting angel eyes installed on my 2004 TL from light wurkz, however, the 2004 headlights only have 1 projector on each headlight. I called the guy today at Light Wurkz and he told me that I have to buy a brand new set up TL-S headlights so they can open it up and take the housing or shroud (the second projector housing) from it and put it on my current headlight.
http://www.lightwurkz.com/new/projec...063UMNITZA.jpg
I definetly think thats a waste of money to spend $800 on 2 new headlights just to open it up and take the housing out. Does anyone know where I could just get that housing or second projector housing so I dont have to buy brand new headlights? If anyone is selling theirs, please let me know, I'll definetly buy them off!
http://www.lightwurkz.com/new/projec...063UMNITZA.jpg
I definetly think thats a waste of money to spend $800 on 2 new headlights just to open it up and take the housing out. Does anyone know where I could just get that housing or second projector housing so I dont have to buy brand new headlights? If anyone is selling theirs, please let me know, I'll definetly buy them off!
#261
Internal headlight housing NOT sold seperately from headlight.
New headlights: - $800
Ebay, used: - $350-$400
Installing 1 ring per existing headlight: +$70-80 because you can sel the leftover 2 rings to another 04-06 owner. That's what I did.
You may need new ballasts too, as they changed those in 2006. Fog lights won't fit in 2007 headlight housings either...
Keep it simple, 1 ring per headlight.
New headlights: - $800
Ebay, used: - $350-$400
Installing 1 ring per existing headlight: +$70-80 because you can sel the leftover 2 rings to another 04-06 owner. That's what I did.
You may need new ballasts too, as they changed those in 2006. Fog lights won't fit in 2007 headlight housings either...
Keep it simple, 1 ring per headlight.
#262
UCFneo
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Nice how did you power your angel eyes without having to turn on your parking lights? Do they automatically come on when you power your car regardless of whether your not your parking/headlights are on?
#263
UCFneo
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Do you like having 1 ring per headlight? Does it still look nice? Also are they bright enough where you can notice them during the day? I really want to do this on my car, but I dont have any tools or the space to work on this. On top of that Im very mechanically challenged so I'm worried that if I try this on my own, I might really screw it up. Another concern I have is that if its not sealed properly I may end up getting moisture and condensation in the headlight. One more question...haha sorry, but is there any way to install the second ring or at least making it firmly stay there without having to install the second projector? I really like two rings on each side. Any thoughts?
#264
Rule #1 = read this thread before you ask any more questions.
To answer these q's:
1) Power: See page 7-8. I spliced the eye wiring into the windshield wiper primary wiring, I provide a cross link showing where the wire is. Yes, the rings are on anytime the car is switched on... very convenient, and clean. You can see them clearly in all but DIRECT sunlight during they day. They're very bright.
2) Like 1 ring: Yes. I actually prefer one ring per... 2 rings is far too much associated with BMWs. 2 rings is nice too, but 2 many haters say, "stop bitin BMW shit... Noone has a single ring.
3) Does it look nice?
You tell me...
4) See during the day: See q1 answer
5) Install a second set? No way. It would look... wrong. If you want both rings, you need new headlights.
6) Help: Wish I could. I'm local, you could come down for a few pointers, but no way am I doing this again. Your best bet, and no gaurantee, is to hit up Dennis at imodify.com. He may not do angel eyes...
He recently hurt his hand, but will be back in action soon.
To answer these q's:
1) Power: See page 7-8. I spliced the eye wiring into the windshield wiper primary wiring, I provide a cross link showing where the wire is. Yes, the rings are on anytime the car is switched on... very convenient, and clean. You can see them clearly in all but DIRECT sunlight during they day. They're very bright.
2) Like 1 ring: Yes. I actually prefer one ring per... 2 rings is far too much associated with BMWs. 2 rings is nice too, but 2 many haters say, "stop bitin BMW shit... Noone has a single ring.
3) Does it look nice?
You tell me...
4) See during the day: See q1 answer
5) Install a second set? No way. It would look... wrong. If you want both rings, you need new headlights.
6) Help: Wish I could. I'm local, you could come down for a few pointers, but no way am I doing this again. Your best bet, and no gaurantee, is to hit up Dennis at imodify.com. He may not do angel eyes...
He recently hurt his hand, but will be back in action soon.
#268
I don't get it, why exactly is such a dramatic cutoff on the headlights a good thing? They are not only supposed to illuminate the road but also objects far ahead of you so you can see them and stop or avoid them in time if needed.
#269
TeZZeeY
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Originally Posted by Kennedy
5) Install a second set? No way. It would look... wrong. If you want both rings, you need new headlights.
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
#270
'03 ABP YA4-S 6MT
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Originally Posted by AZP-TL
I don't get it, why exactly is such a dramatic cutoff on the headlights a good thing? They are not only supposed to illuminate the road but also objects far ahead of you so you can see them and stop or avoid them in time if needed.
Originally Posted by Tezzeey
i did 2 rings and personally i like them better than one, but thats just me.
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
#271
'03 ABP YA4-S 6MT
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Originally Posted by rp_guy
having a better cutoff means you can aim your lights better and not glare at anyone. sure, there's plenty of people with hid kits that glare into other drivers, but do you want to be an idiot like them? the TL already has great output/cutoff. as long as they are aimed properly, there is no problem light up people/stuff in front of the car.
Originally Posted by Tezzeey
i did 2 rings and personally i like them better than one, but thats just me.
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
#272
Originally Posted by Tezzeey
i did 2 rings and personally i like them better than one, but thats just me.
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
and no you don't need to get new headlights to run 2 rings if you don't have the second projector, you just have to get a lil creative
eek... That's not for me at all. I'll stick to my lowly single ring per headlight.
#273
TeZZeeY
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yah i kinda see what u guys are sayin about the two, but i like how if at night you can see the inside halo when the headlights are on.... i think ill just run the outside lights on one ballast and the inside on the other and control them individually..
#274
hey whats up people I own a 06 tl and just put my wheels on it. I've been getting lots of comliments.I wanted to know if i can purchase the angel eyes for my car allready done instead of taking mine out and sending them away.Also wanted to know of any meets in or near the bronx does'nt matter if i have to travel just wanted to get new ideas for my car.
.
.
#277
AZ Community Team
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Originally Posted by Kennedy
....
Still the hottest headlights on the forum... ......
Still the hottest headlights on the forum... ......
Hands Down, "G" .
#278
horny =
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Originally Posted by Kennedy
Rule #1 = read this thread before you ask any more questions.
To answer these q's:
1) Power: See page 7-8. I spliced the eye wiring into the windshield wiper primary wiring, I provide a cross link showing where the wire is. Yes, the rings are on anytime the car is switched on... very convenient, and clean. You can see them clearly in all but DIRECT sunlight during they day. They're very bright.
To answer these q's:
1) Power: See page 7-8. I spliced the eye wiring into the windshield wiper primary wiring, I provide a cross link showing where the wire is. Yes, the rings are on anytime the car is switched on... very convenient, and clean. You can see them clearly in all but DIRECT sunlight during they day. They're very bright.
#279
Originally Posted by bent09
Really sorry to ask but I reread the entire thread and could not find it. Did the thread get cleand up?
What do you need help with?