----- Original Message -----
From: "Tony Polson" <tp@whsmithnet.co.uk>
To: "JasonPufahl" <jasonpufahl@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2004 1:42 PM
Subject: Re: Xenon Lights?

> JasonPufahl wrote:
> >
> >I need headlights, and have always thought that the
> lighting
> >for the Vanagons was sorely lacking.  So, I am
considering
> >Xenon lights.  Are there any drawbacks to using these as
> >opposed to stock lights?  Specifically, I am looking at
an
> >auction on Ebay right now...
>
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=36476&item=2448399554
> >If they really don't use more draw, are brighter and fit
> >into the existing spots with no modifications I don't see
> >much of a negative...
>
>
> Hi Jason,
>
> Something doesn't quite compute here.
>
> I use Hella H4 Xenon bulbs in my stock Vanagon lights
(round
> headlight type).  They draw the same current as the stock
H4
> halogen bulbs (60/55 watts) but only offer about 15-20%
> greater illumination - nowhere near the 100% extra claimed
> by the eBay advertiser.
>
> Philips also offer H4 Xenon 60/55 watt bulbs and claim
only
> a 15% increase in illumination.
>
> I suggest your eBay seller is afflicted by over-optimism,
> which is perhaps not an uncommon ailment among eBay
sellers!
>
> I live in the UK and bought my Hella H4 Xenon bulbs on UK
> eBay for the equivalent of $US 11.00.  They are very
bright
> and have made a significant difference to night
visibility.
> I would not hesitate to recommend them, but by no stretch
of
> the imagination do they offer a 100% increase in
brightness.
>
> Tony
>