Send reply to:          "Stan Wilder" <wilden1-1@sbcglobal.net>
From:                   "Stan Wilder" <wilden1-1@sbcglobal.net>
To:                     "Jack" <john.cook58@VERIZON.NET>,
        <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Subject:                Re:      Re: E-codes w/ 9004 bulbs?
Date sent:              Wed, 28 Apr 2004 16:25:43 -0500

> I'm one of those guys that runs my brights all the time.
> My headlight bulbs are the original sealed beams in my 912e Porsche. That's
> 29 years old. My electrical system puts out 13.5 volts vs the 15 + volts put
> out by newer car charging systems. Even if you put the fu-fu bulbs in your
> vanagon they're not going to be as bright as they would in the newer cars
> unless you pump up your voltage a little more.
>
> Stan Wilder

Having driven a '61 Beetle for many years, I can sympathize.  When I bought
the '85 Vanagon new, I thought the lighting was great.  But as you say, it
doesn't compare now.

BTW, my observation is that people don't flash others to lower their lights
as much as they used to, at least not in California.  I can think of 3
possible reasons.  1. Traffic is nominally so bad that you can rarely use
highs or you'd be constantly dropping them.  2.  People here are raised on
well-lighted freeways (which are also crowded).  3.  There was a rumor some
years ago that a gang used this as some sort of initiation trigger; ie,
they'd drive around with their highs on until someone flashed, then turn
around and blow that driver away.  Probably false but you can't help but
think about it.

//Jack