Headlight question for the lighting people ?


I have a 1998 4runner and a 2000 4runner

I can’t believe the difference between the 2.

I am going to put a set of headlight assemblies in my 1998 from a 2000 since the will be a direct bolt in swap.

My question is why is there such a difference between the 2 ?


Both use the same bulb.. 9003

Is it the reflector that makes all the difference ?

Also if I want to do a HID conversion will the reflector from the 2000 be good ?

I know jack @#@#@ about all of this new lighting

Thanks mike

 

Not sure about exact differences between '98 and '00 headlight housings but please do not put HIDs in a reflector housing. If you want HIDs do it the right way and install aftermarket projectors like these:

http://www.theretrofitsource.com/pro...2f204f7a13c9bf

 

The difference in your light output could be bulb difference, you didn't mention they were the exact bulb or not, just the type.
Are the plastic lenses hazy/foggy from the sun? If so, clean or get new ones.
Is the lens prizmed or just the reflector?
check your wires for corrosion. corrosion = resistance = dim headlights

HID can be a headache, get a set of really nice 9003 bulbs first like Silvavnia Silverstars, should run you about $40 a pair, but worth every penny. There are other really good regular bulbs, hopefully someone with more knowledge will chime in.

 

I've always heard the Sylvanias are junk but Osram Night Breaker and Philips Xtreme Power seem to get awesome reviews. Unless you want to spend the money to do a projected HID retrofit, stick with halogens. May want to upgrade the wiring if going higher than the stock 55w/60w. Here's my thread on upgrading the headlight wiring and installing 55w/100w halogens:

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116...arness-243482/

 

sorry for the links to ebay
but i dont have pics


1998 style

http://www.ebay.com/itm/TYC-96-97-98...item20be005cbd


2000 style

http://www.ebay.com/itm/TOYOTA-4RUNN...item5ae1ac4e6c

 

I can't comment on other brand bulbs, because i my local shop carried only the Silvanias, i am very happy with them, and they seem to last a good amount.

OK, so that answers the style question, what about the bulbs? try switching them?

 

Both 4runner have the same bulbs and no fogging of the lenses

 

.....

 

Ok, so perhaps it IS the difference between prizmed lens and reflective housing...or wiring. So if you change the housings, and no change, i guess you need to look at the wiring.

 

It's primarily the lense that makes the difference, the '99+ crystal lense housings provide much better light than the '96-'98 fluted lense design.