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86-95 Trucks & 4Runners 2nd/3rd gen pickups, and 1st/2nd gen 4Runners with IFS

Headlight Upgrade

Old Jan 3, 2011 | 04:33 PM
  #21  
aa1911's Avatar
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here's the wiring diagram (among others) I'm using to create my own harness, too pricey for me and I love building wiring projects anyway. Note the diodes and resistor for the hi-beam indicator...

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visit 4crawler's site, fantastic writeup on why and how to do this yourself, takes a little patience and care but it can be done pretty easy. I'll post up pics when I finish mine.
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Old Jan 3, 2011 | 04:36 PM
  #22  
aa1911's Avatar
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From: Western Washington
basically, you need 12g and 18g wire, connectors (available at www.autolumination.com) if you don't want to cut the OE wire harness, 2 x 30+ amp relays, 2 diodes, 1 resistor and 2 x 20amp fuses /holders (or a single 30 amp...) plus your connectors and split loom of course.

it can also be done without the diodes/resistors, tons of diagrams on google images....
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Old Feb 2, 2011 | 04:47 PM
  #23  
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OK. I need some help. Got the stock 1995 headlights (plastic things that aren't rectangles). Basically they are better than candles but I'm glad I drive mostly in the city. In the boonies they would really, really suck. (as opposed to just really sucking light now). What are my options for upgrading them? H4 isn't the right shape. HID's are not worth it to me. I just want some better beam patterns and more lumens being thrown forward. BTW, some dickweed before me put in the wrong bulbs and totally melted the passenger side connector. Already spliced in new connector and used proper bulb. But surely I can get something brighter!!??
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Old Feb 2, 2011 | 08:13 PM
  #24  
shaeff's Avatar
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From: Hudson Valley, NY
Originally Posted by rlordjr
OK. I need some help. Got the stock 1995 headlights (plastic things that aren't rectangles). Basically they are better than candles but I'm glad I drive mostly in the city. In the boonies they would really, really suck. (as opposed to just really sucking light now). What are my options for upgrading them? H4 isn't the right shape. HID's are not worth it to me. I just want some better beam patterns and more lumens being thrown forward. BTW, some dickweed before me put in the wrong bulbs and totally melted the passenger side connector. Already spliced in new connector and used proper bulb. But surely I can get something brighter!!??
Assuming the lenses and reflectors are in good shape, do a proper rewire using 10 or 12 AWG, a few sealed relays, relay harnesses, and seal it all up really well. Then grab some OSRAM Nightbreaker +90 bulbs and you'll be set.

Also, do NOT confuse OSRAM with Sylvania. OSRAM is much better quality as far as output AND longevity.

If wiring isn't your thing, 4crawler here on the forum sells rewire harnesses. Here's his site: http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...adlights.shtml
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Old Feb 3, 2011 | 08:28 AM
  #25  
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I had the h4 lenses for a few years, but they weren't as bright as I wanted.

I checked the voltage the bulbs were getting. Almost a full volt drop from the battery to the connector. I built the 4crawler headlight relay upgrade and my lights are substantially better. ~$45 well spent.

Is there any way to polish up the h4 lenses? One of mine is not nearly as shinny as the other. I see there's lots of kits for plastic lenses, but I haven't seen anything for the glass ones.
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Old Feb 3, 2011 | 09:04 AM
  #26  
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From: Graham, WA
Originally Posted by mojo4x420
I had the h4 lenses for a few years, but they weren't as bright as I wanted.

I checked the voltage the bulbs were getting. Almost a full volt drop from the battery to the connector. I built the 4crawler headlight relay upgrade and my lights are substantially better. ~$45 well spent.

Is there any way to polish up the h4 lenses? One of mine is not nearly as shinny as the other. I see there's lots of kits for plastic lenses, but I haven't seen anything for the glass ones.
Ive always had good results with rubbing compound
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Old Jan 24, 2012 | 08:05 PM
  #27  
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From: L.A. CA
Need to upgrade my lights also!! To much wiring!!!
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Old Jan 26, 2012 | 03:17 AM
  #28  
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From: Graham, WA
Originally Posted by 87Toy22r
Need to upgrade my lights also!! To much wiring!!!
The wiring actually isnt too bad. Just follow a diagram and youll be fine. I just built my harness a couple weeks ago then upgraded to H4's and what a difference it made.

I also ordered some Hella 100/80w bulbs which should be here in a day or two. Cant wait to see what a difference those will make compared to the cheap autopal bulbs that came with the housings.
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