SL/R129: Headlights
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,875
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From: Tallahassee, Florida
2006 SL600, 2001 S500, 1996 SL320
Headlights
In my 1996 SL320, I was curious about changing the headlights to something brighter. I really like the Xenon lamps in my S500 and SL600.
Has anyone changed theirs out???
Has anyone changed theirs out???
Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 196
Likes: 6
From: Byblos,Lebanon
SL 55 , Infinity FX37, Aprilia Caponord Rally
You could change to Xenons,but it is a costly job..budget for $1500 and a good electrician..
Alternatively,you could change the bulbs to halogen high power ones at a fraction of the cost.
I changed mine on the SL to Blue halogen 100W bulbs and the night view is amazing,,,It's like daylight...cost $20....choice is yours...
Alternatively,you could change the bulbs to halogen high power ones at a fraction of the cost.
I changed mine on the SL to Blue halogen 100W bulbs and the night view is amazing,,,It's like daylight...cost $20....choice is yours...
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 265
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From: Manchester, UK
500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.
Originally Posted by dafi129
I changed mine on the SL to Blue halogen 100W bulbs and the night view is amazing,,,It's like daylight...cost $20....choice is yours...
I'm gonna get some of these at the weekend. Do Halfords sell em?
Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 88
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From: Toronto
1998 E320, 1994 320 SL,2000 Ford F 150.1997 Gixxer 1100
I really need to know if these 100 watt bulbs will eventually create electrical problems (burnt harness) etc.I have researched many posts. Some posts report problems, other people seem not to experience these issues. For obvious reasons, my local MB dealer does not recomend, however the tuning shop says no problem. So here I am with a pair of Phillips 500 and unable to make an informed decision.
What's the final analysis on this guys? Should I install them or just live with my old yellow lights?
What's the final analysis on this guys? Should I install them or just live with my old yellow lights?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 1,558
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From: Sacramento, CA
Ducati
I think that you will eventually run into problems with melting wires, melting houseings, or fire by just "bumping" up the wattage of the bulbs. Remeber, these cars are rated for something like 60 watt bulbs, and by throwing a 100 watt bulb into the system, you are drawing more power than what it as built and designed for. I think your best bet is to go with the safe and sane good quality halegon with the correct wattage for your car. When you have the time and money, incest in the nice HID's. It will be well worth it.
Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 196
Likes: 6
From: Byblos,Lebanon
SL 55 , Infinity FX37, Aprilia Caponord Rally
Chris,yes I do believe Halfords sell them or even Euro car parts..
As for problems,I had mine on for a long time with no problems and no one else I know had any problems...If your wiring is good then fear not and enjoy
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons.
As for problems,I had mine on for a long time with no problems and no one else I know had any problems...If your wiring is good then fear not and enjoy
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons.
Member
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 233
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From: Adelaide, Australia. Formerly Bristol, UK.
1998 SL 600 ///AMG. 1997 SL 320. 1999 SLK 230K. 2001 BMW R850.
"If your wiring is good then fear not and enjoy
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
Last edited by Pigzmickey; Dec 12, 2005 at 06:12 PM.
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Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,875
Likes: 4
From: Tallahassee, Florida
2006 SL600, 2001 S500, 1996 SL320
What is involved?
What is involved in switching the standard lights on my old SL320 to the Xenon lights???
Originally Posted by Pigzmickey
"If your wiring is good then fear not and enjoy
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,608
Likes: 2
From: West Coast, USA
2 SL with every Brabus mods available & Class A competition sound system
Originally Posted by Pigzmickey
"If your wiring is good then fear not and enjoy
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
daylight at a fraction of the cost of Xenons"
But you can't beat the look of Xenons! Here are my 2 babies.
The black 600 has been AMG modified since I took these pics earlier this year, it now has an AMG bodykit. I'll take some more pics soon...
Member
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 233
Likes: 0
From: Adelaide, Australia. Formerly Bristol, UK.
1998 SL 600 ///AMG. 1997 SL 320. 1999 SLK 230K. 2001 BMW R850.
Originally Posted by StephenK
What is involved in switching the standard lights on my old SL320 to the Xenon lights???
All you need is the lights, no extras required. It takes about 30 mins a side to change them, if you do a good job!
Are you in the USA? Because I have another set of Xenons for sale soon...
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Manchester, UK
500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.
Originally Posted by Pigzmickey
Hi Stephen
All you need is the lights, no extras required. It takes about 30 mins a side to change them, if you do a good job!
Are you in the USA? Because I have another set of Xenons for sale soon...
All you need is the lights, no extras required. It takes about 30 mins a side to change them, if you do a good job!
Are you in the USA? Because I have another set of Xenons for sale soon...
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 65
Likes: 0
From: Richardson, Texas
1995 SL 320
Silverstar by Sylvania
Replace your OEM bulbs with the Sylvania/Osram Silverstar 45/65W bulbs,9004.They are still the same wattage as the OEM bulbs,just a higher Kelvin output,4000K to be exact.The original OEM bulbs were 3400K.The light is white,not yellow as in the original Halogens.The bulb also puts out a nice beam shaped pattern,much, much better than the original OEM bulbs which scattered light everywhere.You will be very happy with the result.Much more light output,better pattern of light,and white light to boot.No fear of burning wire harnesses,ect because wattage remains the same.Cost for these at Autozone are $35.00 per pair.I have used them now for 3 months in my SL320 and I love the results.You don't have to get zenon headlights unless you want to spend the extra money.
Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 89
Likes: 1
From: UK - south east
'93 SL500
Fascinating, just as I was reviewing which bulbs I 'need' for my xmas pressie you guys are too - don't you just love forums
Firstly Pigzmickey, those headlights are GORGEOUS
OK, so here's my thoughts so far:
1. I wish I could afford the xenons and do it properly - but bulbs first!
2. Don't use higher wattage lamps as not only wiring may suffer or be underrated (although hard to believe) but the higher UV output may damage the headlamp casing?
3. Here's a great site for us UK guys.. www.powerbulbs.co.uk
And a review held by Auto Express:
The 2005 Auto Express Bulb Test
http://www.autobulbsdirect.co.uk/pages.php?pageid=15
So, do I go for the Philip's BlueVision at 30% extra light and hopefully achieve a slight blue tinge and NOT green as I had with a previous manufacturer!? Or the Philip's Vision Plus at +50%?
Has anyone tried the Philip's BlueVision and if so are these blue or green?
Cheers
Lea
Firstly Pigzmickey, those headlights are GORGEOUS
OK, so here's my thoughts so far:
1. I wish I could afford the xenons and do it properly - but bulbs first!
2. Don't use higher wattage lamps as not only wiring may suffer or be underrated (although hard to believe) but the higher UV output may damage the headlamp casing?
3. Here's a great site for us UK guys.. www.powerbulbs.co.uk
And a review held by Auto Express:
The 2005 Auto Express Bulb Test
http://www.autobulbsdirect.co.uk/pages.php?pageid=15
So, do I go for the Philip's BlueVision at 30% extra light and hopefully achieve a slight blue tinge and NOT green as I had with a previous manufacturer!? Or the Philip's Vision Plus at +50%?
Has anyone tried the Philip's BlueVision and if so are these blue or green?
Cheers
Lea
Last edited by LeaUK; Dec 20, 2005 at 04:10 AM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Manchester, UK
500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.
Hi Lea
Did you check out these? It looks like you can have 50% AND blue light?
http://www.autobulbsdirect.co.uk/pro...cat=255&page=1
#16320
H4 12V 55/60W Philips Power 2 Night GT-150 bulbs
Philips have developed this outstanding new Power 2 Night bulb. By taking the plus 50% vision qualities of the Vision Plus bulb and adding a stylish blue tint they have a recipe for success!! This is the first bulb to legally combine the plus 50% vision quality and the ever sought after blue tint.
Philips are well known for producing products of the highest quality. These Power 2 Night bulbs are made from Quartz glass which gives them more durability than a standard bulb. The GT-150 is a must have for anyone wanting the highest quality upgrade bulb.
Philips Power 2 Night GT-150 bulbs are fully e marked and road legal.
Did you check out these? It looks like you can have 50% AND blue light?
http://www.autobulbsdirect.co.uk/pro...cat=255&page=1
#16320
H4 12V 55/60W Philips Power 2 Night GT-150 bulbs
Philips have developed this outstanding new Power 2 Night bulb. By taking the plus 50% vision qualities of the Vision Plus bulb and adding a stylish blue tint they have a recipe for success!! This is the first bulb to legally combine the plus 50% vision quality and the ever sought after blue tint.
Philips are well known for producing products of the highest quality. These Power 2 Night bulbs are made from Quartz glass which gives them more durability than a standard bulb. The GT-150 is a must have for anyone wanting the highest quality upgrade bulb.
Philips Power 2 Night GT-150 bulbs are fully e marked and road legal.
Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 89
Likes: 1
From: UK - south east
'93 SL500
Hi Chris
Just as I was warming to the vision plus you scuppered my thought process ;-)
Do you know if the Power 2 Night lamps were reviewed by the Autoexpress test?
Has anyone tried them - are they really blue or more like green - sorry have been bitten before (and have been taken the **** out of by my buddies - don't you hate that!).
Now I'm really tempted. 50% + blue ;-) sounds like the ultimate eh?
Cheers
Lea
Just as I was warming to the vision plus you scuppered my thought process ;-)
Do you know if the Power 2 Night lamps were reviewed by the Autoexpress test?
Has anyone tried them - are they really blue or more like green - sorry have been bitten before (and have been taken the **** out of by my buddies - don't you hate that!).
Now I'm really tempted. 50% + blue ;-) sounds like the ultimate eh?
Cheers
Lea
Last edited by LeaUK; Dec 20, 2005 at 03:16 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Manchester, UK
500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.
Originally Posted by LeaUK
OK, you win. Have ordered them already, see what happens. I'll take photos of before and after to help others..
Cheers Chris
Lea
Cheers Chris
Lea
Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 89
Likes: 1
From: UK - south east
'93 SL500
Got mine just before Xmas, now they're fitted 
I'm (so far) very impressed with the new Phillips lamps - they are truly whiter. Autobulbsdirect also provided a set of 'whiter' complimentary side lights free of charge and even though they look deep blue (see attached, old on the left, new on the right) are beautifully white when illuminated.
To compare, I fitted both H4 headlamp and side lamp to one half of the car and the difference is amazing - the previous Osram's look seriously yellow and I didn't even notice how bad they were. OK, so they're not HID quality but they are significantly whiter and they do what packet says!
Just one last point, even though mine were on the 'boy racer' Xmas list (with the blue tipped quartz glass) the final effect is a splash of blue at certain angles (quite minimal) and a truly white look.
I did try and take a couple of photos to show the comparison but my camera didn't do the difference any justice
On the whole I can thoroughly recommend the Philip's & white side lamp range.
Cheers
Lea
I'm (so far) very impressed with the new Phillips lamps - they are truly whiter. Autobulbsdirect also provided a set of 'whiter' complimentary side lights free of charge and even though they look deep blue (see attached, old on the left, new on the right) are beautifully white when illuminated.
To compare, I fitted both H4 headlamp and side lamp to one half of the car and the difference is amazing - the previous Osram's look seriously yellow and I didn't even notice how bad they were. OK, so they're not HID quality but they are significantly whiter and they do what packet says!
Just one last point, even though mine were on the 'boy racer' Xmas list (with the blue tipped quartz glass) the final effect is a splash of blue at certain angles (quite minimal) and a truly white look.
I did try and take a couple of photos to show the comparison but my camera didn't do the difference any justice
On the whole I can thoroughly recommend the Philip's & white side lamp range.
Cheers
Lea
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Manchester, UK
500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.
Originally Posted by LeaUK
Got mine just before Xmas, now they're fitted
I'm (so far) very impressed with the new Phillips lamps - they are truly whiter.
I'm (so far) very impressed with the new Phillips lamps - they are truly whiter.
Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 89
Likes: 1
From: UK - south east
'93 SL500
Hi Chris - merry Christmas
Yes I have the GT150s and can only offer a comparison with the car sitting on my drive as due to the snow I haven't bothered venturing out yet. But I can say that these lamps are significantly whiter and as you can see they're not coated in a blue filter to reduce the lower frequency 'red' wavelengths but are clear; therefore by assumption must be brighter too.
As to actually driving and real world performance I'm going to wait for the snow to clear and I'll update then.
Happy New Year
Lea
Yes I have the GT150s and can only offer a comparison with the car sitting on my drive as due to the snow I haven't bothered venturing out yet. But I can say that these lamps are significantly whiter and as you can see they're not coated in a blue filter to reduce the lower frequency 'red' wavelengths but are clear; therefore by assumption must be brighter too.
As to actually driving and real world performance I'm going to wait for the snow to clear and I'll update then.
Happy New Year
Lea
Last edited by LeaUK; Dec 28, 2005 at 05:47 AM.
Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 89
Likes: 1
From: UK - south east
'93 SL500
So now I've been out and about for a couple of days and I comment a little further.
The biggest improvement is by far the reflection from signs and cat's eyes. WOW, I thought it was me until I asked two work colleagues what their impression was after when fitting xenon gas headlamps to their cars and they agreed!
Road signs simply pop out with brilliant colours way ahead of you - far better than my old Osram standard lamps.
I can also see a clear headlamp cut-off beam clearly defined on the road surface. However, I will say that the road surface isn't dazzlingly brighter but maybe I'm asking too much?
Overall, I'm extremely happy with the pure white colour, the blue twinkle and the significantly improved cat's eye/road sign improvement - nice work Phillips
Lea
The biggest improvement is by far the reflection from signs and cat's eyes. WOW, I thought it was me until I asked two work colleagues what their impression was after when fitting xenon gas headlamps to their cars and they agreed!
Road signs simply pop out with brilliant colours way ahead of you - far better than my old Osram standard lamps.
I can also see a clear headlamp cut-off beam clearly defined on the road surface. However, I will say that the road surface isn't dazzlingly brighter but maybe I'm asking too much?
Overall, I'm extremely happy with the pure white colour, the blue twinkle and the significantly improved cat's eye/road sign improvement - nice work Phillips
Lea
