In a message dated 00-01-21 22:06:48 EST, you write:

> The thing is that there is just no easy solution to the poor low beam
> problem with the Vanagon.

>  The square headlights have a poor DOT design that doesn't allow what light
> is there to go where it is needed.  The wiring is poor so if you simply put
in
> a higher wattage bulb you would probably start a fire.  The headlight switch
>  can't handle the current of a nicer bulb without shortening it's life
>  drastically.

2 points, rasing questions and discussion:

Wouldn't using a relay with a higher wattage bulb spare the headlight switch
from the extra current needed for the higher wattage bulbs?

AND/OR

I am looking at a brochure for the South African Vanagon and see the top of
the line Vanagon currently produced (The 2.6i Caravelle, it is called) has
what looks like an identical grill to the later model Vanagons we drive. So
to clarify, MOST of the current South African buses have the quad round light
grills we've all come to know and love, but this luxury Caravelle has the
square headlight set up. (BTW it also has the cool wheels seen on the
Eurospec bus in March 2000 VW Trends)

The brochure merely says the Caravelle  includes "Headlights: Twin Halogen,
rectangular."

Now, lets say these rectangular low beams are better than the low beams on
the American and European busses we drive. And lets say the headlight switch
in the South African busses can handle the better bulb. And lets say some one
could import the set up allowing those who love the square light grill to
keep it--or offer a cheaper solution to an entire new grill set up. Or,
perhaps the new rectangular light grill with better lights would become the
new hot item.

The idea that these lights are the same size on our busses is speculation on
my part. So I'm just opening up the idea for discussion and hoping someone
has more information or ideas.

I suppose the first question is would the lights, if they are better, be
approved by the DOT for use in the states?

(having said that I have the quad round light SA grill with the Hella H3s on
my bus and it works great--although I do have to wire in some relays)

Jeff
83.5 Westy
NYC