Headlamps too hot?

[archigator]

I recently installed 60/55W Osram H4 Halogen headlamps (with upgraded relays) in place of the stock headlights, and I'm concerned that these hotter lamps may be causing my paint on one of the headlamp buckets to crack.

Has anyone else fitted similar halogen headlamps and had a heat build-up issue? In my research, it appeared that these lamps were some of the coolest (temperature-wise) of the halogens. My paint finish at the bucket may possibly be cracking for other reasons. I had a repaint a little over a year ago, and the original paint was totally stripped back prior to repaint. It may possibly be a paint prep issue in lieu of heat from the lamps. I don't know. Thanks.

Gary
'71 Elan Sprint
Miami, Florida

[peterako]

I'd be very interested in seeing the reply.

I'm in the process of upgrading my lamps to Halogens (relays, wires,
fuses atc. done, just building up the courage to insert the new
lamp units with bulbs...).

I've just been to my local auto parts shop to return the 80/100W
bulbs they had convinced me to buy and get 55/60W ones.

My main concerns were current draw and HEAT.....
and of course the lights causing a major electrical faiure at night
at speed.....

Take care,
Peter (1973 +2S 130/5)

[rgh0]

I have run 60/55w H4 halogen lamps in both the plus 2 and Elan for 25 plus years with no sign of overheating or blistering of the paint. Stone chips are the only problem on the headlight pods paint.

regards
Rohan

[miked]

I have had them in an S4 for the last 3 years without problems.


Mike

[steveww]

I have run halogen lights in my S4 for 3 years all with out any problems. The pods do not even get warm to the touch. I guess your paint issues lay elsewhere.

[archigator]

Thanks everyone! What a great resource this site is; answers from several continents. I'll flip on my headlights with confidence now.

Gary
'71 Elan Sprint
Miami, Florida