Quote:
Originally Posted by Par02
Darnit. I was all ready to buy the GTRs but this intrigues me.
The link you sent has 4 different fields for options. I have to admit, I have no clue which to choose for mine. 2020 4Runner ORP.
And you say as easy as a lightbulb but then you say you run a relay kit. Why did you do that instead of going the easy way? Is there a step by step installation video or anything? The install guide makes my eyes hurt :P
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An HID setup has several parts: bulb, ballast, relay (optional), projector
Bulb is self explanatory. Ballast is basically a voltage converter, the 12-14v of the truck into tens of thousands of volts to spark over the gap in the HID bulb.
The relay provides a more steady power source directly from the battery to the ballast, required in the event that the vehicle wiring can't support the amperage draw of the ballast (not a problem in our trucks). The projector is the glass and mirror housing for the bulb which focuses and aims the light.
There are 3 different ways to utilize an HID setup in the 4Runner
1) Plug-n-Play Kit
These are available from XenonDepot, Retrofit Source, and other places for $150+. They include a bulb which will fit into the factory projector. Meaning you only need to drill a hole into the dust cover cap to run wires through from the truck headlight connector to the ballast then back to the bulb. The ballast will need to be mounted (screw or double sided tape) somewhere close to the headlight. Because these use the Toyota projector, which was designed for a halogen bulb not an HID bulb, they do not have a great cut off and can easily dazzle oncoming drivers if not aimed low enough.
2) Projector Retrofit/Conversion
This is pretty much the same as above with the added work of ungluing the headlight assembly and changing the projector to one designed to work with HID bulbs. It involves quite a bit more work, but will have a sharp cut-off and project light very well.
3) Housing Replacement
Basically you're paying someone else to do the above for you, mount it all in a housing, and ship it to you. Rather expensive ~$1300+, and has lots of customization options. Kustom54 type of work. There are also housing replacements which add more projectors and pack them with LEDs instead of HID.
Most people opt for option 1 as it's the simplest and can be done in an afternoon with minimal ability required.
Option 2 is more involved, you have to heat the glue which seals the headlight up in the oven in order to get the headlight open, then add new adhesive in order to seal it again. Seal it improperly and you'll forever have a condensation problem in your headlights. Can also add things like demon eyes and switchback halos to the install as well.
Option 3 is out there, but most don't want to deal with the price tag associated with it.
I did have option 1 installed for almost 4 years. My kit is still functional and now installed in a 4Runner in Cali. The bulbs were reaching the end of their life, and were growing less bright than they used to be. I didn't want the reoccurring cost of replacing $75-200 bulbs every 3-4 years given the amount of night time driving I do. I am also very willing to take a slightly less intense light as I have Baja Design fog lights and 20" light bar should I need more light. To each their own. I've tried one, found something I didn't care for and wanted to try something different. I will say the LED installation is significantly simpler!
The Idiot Thread - XenonDepot HID Low Beam Plug-n-Play Kit