Outer Limits 4x4 Board

Hi all, I have a Holden Drover, fitted with a G13A engine. I have the H4 aftermarket headlights fitted by ARB. I did have the IPF 'Fatboy' globes, they were really good, but kept on blowing (just the low beam) every 6 to 12 months, and at $75 per globe they were to expensive to keep replacing all the time... I now have Cibie 100/80w globes, which are $20 each and still really good. They also keep blowing every 6 to 12 months... My parker lights also do the same thing... Tonight, I replaced the left headlight, and as I turned it on to test it, the right side blew (lucky I bought 2 globes, not 1) so I had to replace it. Somebody told me that if my lights keep blowing, that there could be a problem internally? Is this so? What do I need to look for or fix up? I'd really apprieciate some help, as my other 1990 Pajero has had the same headlights and other globes in it for years and years with no problems at all...

Assuming your electrical system isn't operating in excess of the usual charging voltage............

You can't get extra light out of an Incandescent filament without running it hotter - and therefore its going to have a shorter life expectancy ( and be more fragile ).

No matter how exotic the marketing or construction its a basic fact of lamp construction. When you look at the manufacturers MTBF the situation is spelt out clearly.

Turn on is also the most likely time for lamp failures - tungsten has a negative temperature coefficient which means it is a lower resistance when cold causing significant initial inrush current and the consequent magnetic effects on the filament.

Just to demonstrate the point.... most manufacturers make long life globes, where they actually run them cooler - sacrificing light output for longer life. even a few percent help a lot.

So, if you continue to run high output gloges that's just a consequence you wll have to live with.

Pretty much as mighty mouse said... Firstly check your charging voltage make sure it doesn't exceed 14v...
If all is ok there, try using standard 55/60 globes and see if this eleviates your issue.. Higher wattage globes have a very short life span.

Dan