"This is the MAIN reason for installing headlamp  relays.  The higher
wattage
bulbs that can then be used are a side  benefit.  See my _Vanagon
Headlamp
Relay  Upgrade_ (http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/hdltrela.htm)  webpage for
more
details."

I agree!  I had a wire melt down from the headlight switch.  When I
replaced the wires with those from a spare harness guess what?  I found
that the spare harness had the same wires replaced in it!  I going to do
the relay fox when I put the van back on the road.

Frank, any guesses on time to do this?  I might want to do this before I
bring my new Westy home on its cross country trek.

John