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MNBoxster · 02-02-2006, 06:38 AM

Hi,

You certainly could replace the OEM H7 lights with SilverStars. But, I'm not sure it would be worth it.

First, the Bulbs are expensive and Silvania estimates their lifespan to be 1 year, so replacement will be more frequent.

Second, the slight Spectral Shift in the bulb's color could lead to greater scattering of light by Fog, Rain and Dust, leading to More Glare for the Driver instead of Less as intended.

Third, Fog Light design is a very exacting science. The poly-plane reflector was designed specifically with a 55W Halogen in mind. Although somewhat counter-intuitive, increasing the light's intensity could result in a lower efficiency of this reflector, less confined beam and poorer visibility for the Driver.

Finally, increasing the light's intensity can have the adverse effect of causing increased Glare to oncoming Drivers. Not particulary good Road Courtesy toward other Drivers and could actually create an unsafe condition. This last bit is becoming an increasing concern. So much so, that the NHTSA is currently conducting hearings to consider regulations concerning their design and use - see: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/rulings/glare.html ...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

02-02-2006, 06:38 AM	#2
MNBoxster Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, USA Posts: 3,308	Hi, You certainly could replace the OEM H7 lights with SilverStars. But, I'm not sure it would be worth it. First, the Bulbs are expensive and Silvania estimates their lifespan to be 1 year, so replacement will be more frequent. Second, the slight Spectral Shift in the bulb's color could lead to greater scattering of light by Fog, Rain and Dust, leading to More Glare for the Driver instead of Less as intended. Third, Fog Light design is a very exacting science. The poly-plane reflector was designed specifically with a 55W Halogen in mind. Although somewhat counter-intuitive, increasing the light's intensity could result in a lower efficiency of this reflector, less confined beam and poorer visibility for the Driver. Finally, increasing the light's intensity can have the adverse effect of causing increased Glare to oncoming Drivers. Not particulary good Road Courtesy toward other Drivers and could actually create an unsafe condition. This last bit is becoming an increasing concern. So much so, that the NHTSA is currently conducting hearings to consider regulations concerning their design and use - see: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/rulings/glare.html ... Happy Motoring!... Jim'99