conversion to Europeon headlites

[James T. Wiens]

I have been weighing the options, of either going to brighter headlight bulbs, or converting to the Europeon headlight assemblys.
I know there are bulbs available that are considerably brighter and do not require relays , but is it still better to convert to the Europeon assembly?
And if conversion , what 's the best source and approximate
costs?

[OliverB]

James;
If you convert to the Euro style headlight and use the proper wattage bulb, relays are not required. You will not place any more load on the wires with the correct legal wattage. Use good bulbs, such as the Silver Star by Sylvania. You will get a brighter headlight and a better pattern spread. I converted my 1990 300E two years ago. Can't tell you where the best price is today. Go with the brand names, such as Hela or Bosch, for best quality. Adsit Company (http://www.adsitco.com/) will give a 10% discount for faxed orders. Check out the link on the left side of their home page.

[oldsouth]

I bought mine here. http://www.capitolwest.com/mercedes_exterior_accessories.htm#European%20Headl ights

They seem to have good prices. Get some higher power bulbs also. They make a lot of difference.

[Tom Hanson]

Jim, European lights always work better. Try Bekkers Imports in GA. 800 624-5410 . You can put 80/100W bulbs in there for great night driving. Others coming towards you will complain, but they'll get over it.

[Hammer]

On a 124 chassis car the headlight plug needs to be replaced with a heavier one before you put in 80/100 watt bulbs. I've gotten some in the past from an Audi dealer (blue plastic ones, sorry, no part #)

Also, in my experiments (experience) eventually the 80/100 bulbs explode inside the USA headlights as they get too hot.

I hope this helps,

George

[lkchris]

Just note that when you convert to Euro lights you will either lose your headlight wipers or purchase the proper wiper motors, arms and blades instead. In either instance you'll need new sheet metal under the lights unless you're willing to live with holes.

I did it all and it's all worth it. Some folks install the sheet metal from the wiperless 260E.

[James T. Wiens]

Hello IKris
Thank you for the thoughts on the 124 headlight conversion. I made the conversion , using the bright lite Sylvania bulbs, stock wattage, and installed the solid filler strips below the lites .I used the conectors that came with the lites
and it took about 4 hours to complete the conversion. After adjusting the lites , they are a 100% improvement. Thanks to all for your advise.....Jim