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H3's: 55w vs. 100w

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14K views 8 replies 7 participants last post by  snowboarder61  
#1 ·
While at the auto parts store today, I looked at the Silvania Silverstar H3 bulbs for my driving lights. At 20 bucks each, I figured my stock ones work well enough. Then I noticed that there are "standard" H3's for around 8 dollars each. Not only that, but they come in the 100w flavor. These look identical to the 55w bulbs. So now I'm wondering, who is using 100w H3's in place of the 55w H3's and are they causing any problems?
 
#3 ·
Wow Warren I thought I would never see you have a question. But then again I've only been to the forum for a few days. Anyway I replaced my fog lights with a pair of CATZ 100W H3s and they were REALLY bright but came in a different housing. I had to completely rewire my foglights though. Even used the same switch! So the old ones I just junked due to one being broke anyway. The bad thing with them is they tend to burn out much faster due to heat so I bumped them down to 75w instead and they are still much brighter. Actually brighter then my headlights. Other than replaceing them about every 4-6 months on the 100w I didn't have a problem but I also wasn't using my factory fog light housing.
 
#5 ·
I know its a little on the spendy side, but you can order piaa 55w lamps for $60
a pair. They are "aircraft landing bulbs". They put out 130w of light, but only draw the legal 55w amount. Then you dont have to rewire your lights. Thats what I run in all 4 of my hella 500s on my xj. I love it and as long as I dont run all 4 at the same time, I dont get hassled by the fuzz
 
#6 ·
I definately plan on upgrading to the Silverstart H3ST fog lamp bulbs in the near future. The reason I'm doing it is that I'm extremely happy with my Silverstar headlights. I also like the idea that my fog lamps will match my headlights as far as color tones are concerned. :)
 
#7 ·
tehpwnt said:
I definately plan on upgrading to the Silverstart H3ST fog lamp bulbs in the near future. The reason I'm doing it is that I'm extremely happy with my Silverstar headlights. I also like the idea that my fog lamps will match my headlights as far as color tones are concerned. :)
I have the silverstar headlights also and must say that I will be getting the H3's for the fogs soon also! The difference is amazing. That and they don't draw any more power than stock H3's do. I will try to take pics tomarrow!

Later
Brandon