I just replaced the factory headlamps with CIBIE E-code headlamps and 70/65 Watt H4 bulbs and couldn't be happier. I researched long and hard about headlamp\bulb options and purchased this setup through Daniel Stern who provided frank answers, advice and technical info upon request.

The headlamps are optically superior and direct more light on the road as opposed to scattered about. I only went one-up on the bulbs but there is a noticeable difference in the amount and focus of light where I need it and there is always the option of going brighter if and when I deem it necessary. I haven't aimed them yet (wasn't able to find a wall, long flat surface and a few minutes to spare all at the same time) but I have yet to be flashed by oncoming traffic. I will aim them by this weekend "to get their maximum benefit". I did, of course, go with an upgraded wiring harness so as not to risk anything frying now and\or when I decide to go brighter.

I didn't take pictures but the entire install took about an hour and a half (including side marker mod and slow time to reference and make sure that I was cutting\connecting the correct wires) - remove plastic screw\plugs from top of grill, pop the bottom of the grill out, disconnect front turn signal lights & grill comes off; remove the trim rings aroung the factory headlamps (4 15mm torx screws), unplug and remove the headlamp\bulb assembly; lay out relay\wiring harness, mount\secure as necessary; yes, the moment of truth is when you have to cut one of the factory headlamp connectors but follow the directions and all is well (Black=ground, white\brown= low beam, white\green=high beam); place new bulbs in new headlamps and reverse the procedure.

Be cautioned that the JK uses a PWM (pulse width management) headlamp circuit which pulses the current to the headlamps in order to detect a burnt out bulb. This will continuosly cycle and therefore burn out the relays if you don't inclue a diode and resistor in the proper place in the harness. There is a diagram floating around which spells it out or you can just purchase the complete harness and not have to worry about getting it right.

Do the Side Marker Mod at the same time - very easy with the grill off
- Cut the BLACK wire leading to the side marker light and attach it with approx. 6" pigtail to the "OUTSIDE" WHITE\STRIPE wire on the turn signal light (there are three wires to the turn signal in the following order - Black\White with stripe\White with different color stripe. The white\stripe wire opposite the black wire (ie. not the one in the center) is the one to go for.

 

how much did this setup cost?

 

You guys should know better by now.

 

If you went to the trouble of installing H4's why not the IPF's. Or are the Cibie's better lighting than IPF's?

 

Hey that question just made me a FREAK.

 

I haven't used the IPFs but have been told\advised that the CIBIEs are better. I was also given the optical equivalent of a topographic map for light output for the CIBIEs and another well-known brand although I can't recall the name right now and these definitely put more light where you need it (on the road) and less light scattered above and about. Also, the CIBIEs are "E-code" healamps which by design direct more light to the road and less to overhead signs, etc. and I don't think the IPFs are E-code.

There are more and better options for H4 bulbs while the factory bulbs are H13 (9008). Changing to H4s will require modifying the factory harness\headlamp connector. Also, you should upgrade the factory harness of you're planning on using any above-stock wattage bulbs to avoid any possibility\risk of frying out the factory harness.

 

PM sent to JackMack

 

Could you list all of the part numbers that we would need to order for this setup? Thanks and if you don't mind what was the over all cost? I am looking at the Delta Quad Bar setup right now.

Thanks, Ben

 

The parts are as follows:
Headlamps = Cibie H4 E-code headlamps - 7" round
Bulbs = Osram Plus 50 H4 bulbs - 70/65 watts
Wiring harness is custom
I don't have part numbers but I'm sure that you can do an internet search to find the headlamps and you can find bulbs all over. Be careful about the wiring harness though b\c the relays will continuosly cycle and burn out if the harness is not built to take into account the PWM headlamp circuit. I ordered everything including the wiring harnes from danielsternlighting.com. There are no 'part numbers' on his website but there are pictures, descrpitions and technical articles.

PM sent re: price

 

Here is what is needed for the wiring if you want to DIY.
https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...95&postcount=2