Are 986 Litronics plug-in-play?
 

Hello Everyone!

I'm hoping the many minds of 986forum.com can confirm for me that Bosch Litronic headlights are plug-in-play and require no re-wiring unless you want the low beams to be able to move up and down.

Thanks everyone,

Bennett

I can confirm it, my boxster came with halogens and I replaced them with litronics I got off ebay, it was a plug and play swap. As you say, I don't have the low beams that rotate up when high beams are engaged. A big improvement. When I first got them I wasn't as impressed but it was because the bulbs were old and "worn out", getting 2 new bulbs solved it for me and they are way better/brighter than the halos and in my opinion look way better too.

Steve

Yes, they are plug-and-play. I have a set here that I'm installing a set of Freds projectors into. The self leveling feature is completely separate and the headlights work as stand-alone units without the self leveling feature.

If you can find a set for a decent price, it's one of the nicest mods you can do on your boxster. I love the way they look and how bright they are at night compared to the halogens. Day and night difference.

Bought mine 7 years ago for $1250 for the pair. Sadly, they're a lot more now.

If you can buy the wiring box that rotates them upward for high beams you should do it. Excellent for dark mountain road driving.

I think grimesb may actually have a set to sell:
http://986forum.com/forums/boxster-parts-sale-wanted/55106-headlights-m-trans-2nd-cats-f-s.html

I just finished a "budget" litronic upgrade http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/54697-advice-used-litronics.html without the wiring harness and control unit. They work fine, but I'd prefer to have the high-beam rotation function if the extra parts aren't too expensive. If anyone is selling just the harness and control unit, please send me a PM.

I think the nicest upgrade I've done is replacing my plastic rear window/no headliner top with an 04 top and frame. But, the litronics are very nice especially around this time of year when I'm driving home after dark. I'd love to see the high beam rotation in action. I guess I'll have to wait until I can buy the parts off the right "part out".

By the way according to this video, (at around the 17 minute 40 second point) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELiDIIbmH4k&feature=youtu.be the word "litronic" is pronounced "Lie tronic". I had been saying it with a short "i" sound like in lithium. Also "Tequipment" is pronounced "Tay quipment." I guess that is what happens when you buy everything second hand. There is no salesperson to correct your pronunciation. Oh well, at least I pronounce Porsche with two syllables.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ELiDIIbmH4k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

LOL @ 7:49 "Integrated dry sump lubrication ensures a reliable supply of oil to all cylinders even under extreme conditions such as long high speed corners." :)

I got these from Pedro a few years ago and very happy with them and the price is definitely right!

TechnoLite HID

That triggers an interesting thought.

As I noted above, I recently bought a set of used OEM litronic headlights which I was able to refurbish and install on my car. Because they were out of a wreck, I didn't receive a controller or wiring harness with them that would permit the xenon bulbs to swivel up and reinforce the high beams when they are switched on. I have been searching for the components I need to install that feature, but I thought that a better option might be to install the TechnoLite_HD kit in place of the current H7 Halogen bulb used for the high beam. This would essentially create a Bi-Xenon headlight.

I was wondering if anyone had tried this. The main drawback to doing this appears to be that there would be two ballasts on the back of the headlight. The OEM ballast is quite large and takes up a lot of territory. So, while the TechnoLite_HD ballast is small, there may not be enough real estate to accommodate it on the back of the headlight.

I also want to verify that having two xenon bulbs running simultaneously in each headlight wouldn't draw too much current or otherwise harm the electrical system. According to the Porsche literature, the OEM Litronics use 30% less power than the halogens. But, there could be a momentary surge when they turn on that exceeds some limit in the system. Heat does not appear to be problem because the xenon bulbs are said to run at a lower temperature than the halogens.

The system can handle a separate 35 watt ballast on the high beam circuit, but HIDS take about 5-10 seconds to warm up. They wouldn't be much use for daytime flashing and the constant on/off may be hard on the ballasts.
Looking at the Lits I have here, I would recommend installing solenoid activated bi-xenon cutoffs in place of the OEM fixed cutoff.

Most HID kits are CANBUS ready these days and cost around $30-50. ;)

Hi,

i live in germany and my Litronic Bi-Xenon headlights are stock. The Xenon beams move up when you turn on high beam and move down if you turn on low beam. So high beam doesn't work if the light element doesn't move up.

The electronic adjustment of the beams are also very important because they level the beams correctly so you do not blend oncoming traffic.

Regards
Markus

Lits, without the leveling sensors, are perfectly fine if they are meant for the low beam alone (e.g. city cars). If you are able to manually adjust them to the recommended height/aim they shouldn't blind incoming traffic. The high beam won't work indeed but still it gives the driver the impression that it does. Intensity doubles... and that seems to work for some.

I think people often buys Lit for the look - not necessarily/only for better lighting performance. Not a cheap cosmetic upgrade for sure... one guy here recently imported a set (total $2,150). He knew well what you said but wanted the "modern look in day time"... to each his own!

A retrofit of the halogen with "bi-xenon ready" projectors is the way to go. If lighting system performance is looked after anyway. Nearly 50~75% cheaper than Lits as well.... go figure

I did a little more research last night and found this on the Pelican web site: Pelican Technical Article: Budget Boxster HID Headlamp Retrofit - 986 / 987

The author makes the following statement:

You can install an HID kit for your low beams, high beams, and even the fog lamps. I have seen cars with three kits installed, and their fog lamp switch modified so that all three are on at the same time. When you're finished with the installation, be sure to align your headlamps so that you're not pointing the beam into oncoming traffic. In most states, the use of non-factory HID kits are designated for “off-road use only.” Keep in mind that if you don't have a street-legal headlamp system, then you may invite tickets from law enforcement.

So, I guess I'm not the first person to think of this. However, the points you all make lead me to conclude that this is not the best approach. Also, living in Virginia, I find that the combination of State inspection laws and enforcement measures makes it unwise to "push the envelope" on modifications to safety features such as headlights.

I'm not sure I fully understand Particleweave's suggestion. I'll search on his terms and see what I can find out. Since I've already opened and resealed the headlights once, I'm not sure that I want to go through that again.

It sounds like I need to redouble my efforts to find the OEM harness and controller at a good price.

Regarding Nine8Six's comment, "I think people often buys Lit for the look - not necessarily/only for better lighting performance." This is definitely a secondary consideration, but I do think they add to the appearance of the car. Kind of like marrying a beautiful woman that loves you and discovering that she is rich.

The Litronics have Halogen high beams which work fine in that capacity. If you have the harness and module, then the low beam tilts up 1.5 degrees to assist the existing halogen high beam. While I have never seen it, I bet it is awesome :)

There is a Porsche TSB that shows how to add the high beam module/wiring for cars that have had Litronics added, that would be the one I would follow (although it is kind of complex). There are also some write-ups on the web, and also the pelican parts guide.

I can't find the TSB anywhere right now but it is on renntech.org (can't access from work computer) but I think you have to be a contributor.

Set up a search on eBay for the wiring harness and the module; they popup from time to time and sometimes deals can be found... :)

If/when I get a clear set of halos my lits are going back on eBay from whence they came and I am getting a set of these. Or... a friend has a 996 with clear halos with a burnt inner lense... I am working on a trade... :)

When you say headlight mods... if you are referring to the plastic kits/shrouds commonly avail on ebay then yes... believe me your inspector is all aware of those and will often tell you off. Same happening in China!

Have a look in the DYI section of this site. Pretty slick kits avail exclusive to Porsche cars only. Now those are NOT the common $35 plastic looking kits that, like you said, some states are trying to crack down onto ;)

AND nor they are called a "modification". They are a major "IMPROVEMENT" to the headlight and, imo, much safer than fading/burnt halogens

and they are so much better than your Litetronnik :p (my headlights better than yours na-na-na-na-na!!!)

There... said it LOL

Not a bad move, others who've got them fitted would agree with you I'm sure.

When you are ready shoot me a quick PM, I'll make it easy for you

Hi,

well maybe that works for some. But the Litronic auto levels the xenon beams when turned on.

So you run an optimal level at low beam and high beam. Without the automatic leveling system the benefit of the Litronic will be very low. This system really works very good and makes a real good light. But it needs the leveling system to work good.

I'll try to make a video.

Regards
Markus

Well that's the thing with Lits... they are so good (talking about the HB reflector design) that even with the projector in the way they glow like daytime. Never heard anyone complaining about the high beam so "my guess" is they're still worth of a good mod to those who doesn't want to bother installing the leveling kit and harness. From what I understood the level/kit/harness can be a pretty demoralizing job ;)

But I completely understand what you are trying to say there

and yes, it's cosmetic more than anything else. They DO change the appearance of the front-end completely. Fact

Markus,

I'd love to see a video if you get the chance. Maybe with both the high beam operation and load leveling (by bouncing the front end up and down a little)?
That would be great! :)

Charles

Hi,

so i did a little video. Hope you can see how the complete light unit is moving up and down. At the moment i have a connection problem with my left front light. When i put on high beam the left blinker light turns on. Will fix that later on - drive the car only from april to october. ;)

Porsche Boxster 986 Litronic - YouTube

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/syXUCtUiFWY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Regards
Markus

You know Charles (Particlewave) can hack the servos motors with a microcomputer and level the whole unit using a 6DOF sensor? The headlights will aim even during accel/deceleration (real-time). Beat that German Designers lol

Thanks for the vid btw. I really wonder what's the (distance) diff between the static Lit and oem... still I bet it's not much.

Great headlight, I've always said. They are just so bloody expansive.... their major issue

I would call Pedro and ask him that question about Bi-xenon. The way i see it a couple hundred bucks does pretty much the same as the more expensive litronics.

I posted the question on his board - he recommends against a two Xenon bulb set up for the same reasons expressed on this board: The problem with that setup ...

I already have my litronics (which were a bit of a refurb/repair project and much less expensive than buying a new set) so right now I'm not seriously considering an aftermarket solution. I'm pretty happy with how my project turned out, from an appearance standpoint, but I would like to improve the function:

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1419286640.jpg

Thanks to Markus for posting the video on the litronic operation. Considering that (according to my Bentley manual) litronics were an option starting in 1999, it seems possible that a more modern set of controls would be available.

By the way, here are some shots of the internals of my defective ballast:

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1419286867.jpg

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1419286911.jpg

Does that look like a lot of components for what it does?

Hard to digest the fact that there is someone obsessed about headlights more than Charles and myself on this forum LOL

You can't run xenon on a reflector - too bright. You'll blind a deer and he'll simply jump in front of your car. Xenon needs to be distributed (pattern) to be effective, safe - and legal.

You are right about the oem wires. The gauge is 16AWG and rated at 20amp. Igniting two HID ballasts at the same time (let's say you start the car with high beams stick pushed to on) would bring up the current dangerously near its limit (7~9amps per ballast). Something will melt... god know where

You could polish your current projector's glass lens and throw it "true" 55watts HID. You'll see though people clothes while waiting at red lights. Works but very harsh on the optic coating (not tested, careful with that idea)

See, you have no choice but to go for that DIY Bi-Xenon retrofit kit (clear lens and all). Literonniks are late 90's tech mate. You can post your current headlights in the Buy & Sell section today :D

Your ballast has ASIC digital chip technology. Very expansive. Feeling sorry for your loss

And you also need an Illuminated Wind Deflector. Thank you

@ KevinH1990:

Litronic was first introduced in the Porsche 993. Litronic is a Bosch product. The electrical ballast was used in different cars - not only Porsche. Please check the Bosch parts number. If it is: 1 307 329 023 the Litronic ballast was used in the following cars:
Audi A8 D2 1994-1999
Audi TT 8N 1998-2000
BMW 3er e46 1997-2001
BMW 7er e38 1994-1998
Mercedes CL C215 1999-2002
Mercedes C W202 1993-2000
Mercedes S W140 1991-1998
Mercedes S W220 1998-2002
Mercedes SL R129 1989-2001
Mercedes SLK R170 1996-2005
Porsche 911 993 1993-1998
Porsche 911 996 1997-2002
Porsche Boxster 986 1996-2004
VW Bora 1998-2000
VW Golf IV-4 - 1997-2000

So maybe you can get a replacement part from another car that is a little less pricey than the Porsche OEM part.

I also would recommend to check ebay auctions. Sometimes people offer a complete oem conversion kit.

You also can check the Porsche Boxster parts catalog for all the parts you'll need for a complete Litronics conversion.

Regards
Markus

You guys are rubbing off on me. This started as a whim when I bought some damaged headlights, but it has turned out to be quite a nice upgrade to the car. I guess if I thought about it before I started I would have gone with the aftermarket system, but I'm too far down the road now.

I managed to find a controller on Ebay last night, (Control unit: Part number 00004490038)

So now all I need is 2 small plugs 2 (99965256822) and the wiring harness (99661298800).

It looks like the parts might be manufactured by Bosch, so I'll check Markus' suggestion and see it I can find the parts cross referenced from another manufacturer.

If anyone is interested, I'm selling my spare litronic parts to finance this "obsession."
http://986forum.com/forums/boxster-parts-sale-wanted/55179-litronic-headlight-parts-drivers-side.html#post429259

Cuz we're jealous, and being jealous is perfectly legal last time I've checked LOL

I'll have a look with the pros locally if we can find your controller

I find it hard to believe that any reputable seller would offer xenon "upgrades" to be installed in halogen lights, without projectors. All you get is a mess of light that will blind oncoming drivers and sooner or later, a policeman.

+1 Mitch.

And then to charge $199 for a $30 kit. :eek: :rolleyes:

You all have been a big help and I've enjoyed the having the opportunity to collaborate on this project. It's almost as much fun as having a Porsche buddy next door working with me.

If anyone can help, I have part 1 in this picture on its way. I just need the items labeled 2, 3 and 4.
http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1419363319.jpg

Once I have those parts I won't bug anyone again about litronics.

This is not the Bosch parts number, this is the Porsche parts number. In general the Bosch parts number is below the Porsche sticker.

Do the parts you use belong to a 996, or a 986? And what model year? There are some slight differences.

Regards
Markus

The driver's side (left) headlight is from a 99 Carrera (996). The passenger's side (right) is from a 2001 Boxster.

I did not see any major differences between the Boxster and Carrera headlight assemblies and most of the web sites selling the litronic upgrade packages show the same kits for both cars. For example, on Pelican's web site, the 996 kit is part number 000-044-900-41-OEM and the 986 kit number is 000-044-900-41-OEM.

Here's a link to the part I bought on Ebay: Porsche 911 1998 2001 Head Light Module | eBay

Hi,

i'm not talking about the headlights. I'm talking about height sensors and wiring. There are also ballasts with the same Porsche number but with different Bosch numbers available. I'm not shure that they work 100% perfect together, because the OEM wiring for both headlights is seriel, not parallel.

If you are looking for the Porsche part numbers for the parts on the picture, just take a look in the parts catalogue.

US: Porsche Original Parts Catalogue - Parts and Diagnostic Information - Porsche Service - Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

Europe: Porsche Originalteile Katalog - Porsche Originalteile - Porsche Service - Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

Regards
Markus

As I mentioned earlier, I found the control module on Ebay. I ordered the wiring harness today from ECS Tuning. Although this won't provide the auto-leveling function, it will provide the high-beam rotation.

I found someone selling the parts for the OEM system, but I cannot find instructions for the installation. In addition, he is selling the headlights, washers, sensors and wiring in a package and he indicates that he doesn't want to separate them. Unless I can sell what I have, that is a show stopper.

Maybe someday I'll find a part-out in my area with the factory set up and take the parts off so that I can figure out how to put them back on. For now, I'll have to settle for the more limited function.

Overall, I'm happy with what I have. Since I managed to sell my halogen headlights,my net cost is reasonable.

I probably won't receive my wiring kit and control module in time to install them during the holidays. I'll be tied up with work beginning Monday, so it may be late January or February before I can install them. Fortunately, I've found several write ups including the Porsche TSB, so I should have plenty of information to complete the project.

Since I purchased my headlights from damaged cars, I guess there is a chance that the motors could be damaged. However, I have a third motor in case I need it. That is one of the risks you take when you try to do this type of project on a budget.

I installed the module and wiring harness today. I used the TSB and this write up: Skyler's Web Site

My litronics now work just like in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syXUCtUiFWY&feature=youtu.be

It was a real "moment of truth" when I turned on the lights and flicked the high-beam stalk. When I consider that I put the system together as follows:

1. Two headlights from a wrecked Boxster - one had water damage
2. Third headlight from a wrecking yard - had a bad wiring harness
3. Ballast from eBay seller to replace the one with water damage
4. Control module from eBay
5. Wiring harness from ECS Tuning
6. Lot's of advice from Particleweave and Nine8Six
7. Hours of polishing headlight covers

I'm kind of amazed it worked on the first try.

When I started out, all I wanted was the clear covers so that I could de-amber my headlights. I guess I backed into a major project. Still, I'm very happy with the results and the costs were reasonable considering that I was able to sell my amber headlights.

I got lucky... I bought a 99 base that has pretty much no options except the litronics. I didn't realize how much they were used until after we bought the car.

I wish I had been so lucky. The first owner of my car splurged on items like silver gauge faces, center wheel caps with painted crests and an alumna-look shift knob and brake handle. Factory litronics with the dynamic leveling system would have been much more functional and probably would have cost less than the shiny bits.

I guess all's well that ends well. I now have the shiny bits and the litronics. Although I don't have the factory leveling system which would be nice.

I'm thinking about adding the dynamic leveling system. This guy on Renntech
Litronic retrofit question - 996 Series (Carrera, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Targa) - RennTech.org Forums
claims to have done it, but he is a little short on the details. (I need detailed step-by-step instructions for my projects.)

However, other contributors seem skeptical of his achievement.

Nine8Six's comment has me confused
 

Both of my 2002's halogens are yellowed, pitted and have burned spots on the interior lenses. So, I'm looking to replace them and would prefer to install Litronics, if it's feasible.

But this comment casts some doubt on it:

Do the Litronic high beams work without the leveling modules or not? Sounds like they illuminate, so you get twice the output. Are the high beams not aimed higher. Does the rotation of the low beams give the long-distance illumination?

Thanks for any clarification.

There is only one Xenon/High Intensity Discharge bulb in each unit of the OEM litronic headlights. The high beam and fog lights have regular halogen bulbs. So, the high beam is just like it would be in your stock headlights. The Xenon bulb stays on when you flip on the high beams, so overall it is much brighter than the stock all-halogen units.

If you add the control module, you have an additional feature. The Xenon bulb rotates up when you turn on the high beam. So, you have an even brighter effect because the halogen and Xenon bulbs are both aimed higher.

I eventually added the control module to my car. You can see it in operation in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGkfebCCf2Y

This shows the parking lights, Xenon startup with self-leveling and high beam turn on.