Headlight options - Updates? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

cpnbnanamn · 02-10-2017, 01:55 PM

So, I've been reading through many of the threads, most of which are very dated, as to what options there are for updating the headlights in the truck. I've read about the pros/cons of HID's, and don't think I"m going to go that route. I'm more interested in changing out the headlight in my '67 C10 to something that has a good light pattern, and I can change out the bulb without having to tear apart the front end to do it.. I looked at the Hella option, too.. not sure I'm a fan of that, either.

What have you all found that works well? I'd like to see some options that are more up to date. I do have a relay harness en route from GMachinz, so that's taken care of..

onebigjohn · 02-10-2017, 02:10 PM

I have these in my VW Thing...And got a set for my 72' but not installed yet.
They work awesome!!!
Perfect White
Perfect Pattern
Wish I had pics...
https://vintagecarleds.com/

Willie Makeit · 02-10-2017, 03:21 PM

E-cod Hellas and a relay harness upgrade. Best bang for the $$$.

Mollzyie · 02-10-2017, 04:08 PM

Thanks for making this thread op ... Iv been meaning to make same one ... I've googled to see what's out there . Interested in aftermarket headlight/taillights . What have u guys tried ? Regretted ? On your wish list ?

Thanks dudes

74baggedbug · 02-10-2017, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Willie Makeit

E-cod Hellas and a relay harness upgrade. Best bang for the $$$.

Yep!!!!

cleszkie · 02-10-2017, 05:32 PM

I run a set of KC Daylighter DOT approved LED headlamps. They cost a bit more than those Vintage Car LEDs, but that is probably due to the DOT rating. I also did the headlight relay upgrade.

71BUCKET · 02-10-2017, 07:03 PM

I'm looking at doing the JW speaker evolution led headlights

**LockDoc** · 02-10-2017, 07:55 PM

-
I used Jeep Wrangler headlights in my '67 Panel Truck. Jeep JK Wrangler headlights ('07-current) are a direct bolt in swap for the old sealed beam headlights in our trucks. They even have the 3 lugs on the back for alignment and use the stock '67-'72 trim rings. I went ahead and bought the headlight conversion pigtails for the swap too.

I bought both on e-Bay. Here are the actual pigtails I bought and the headlights I bought were from a private seller that changed his over to something different. They are in excellent condition. You have to be careful because there are a lot of look alikes. They do make exact replacements too but you have to watch, some of them come with bulbs and some don't. The easy way to tell the OEM's are by the back. I think the lights are the same from 2007-2015.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/130940451329...AIT&rmvSB=true

LockDoc

**HO455** · 02-10-2017, 07:58 PM

1995 vintage Hella euro non dot H-4's. Over 90,000 miles on them and still great. They are on their second vehicle. Hard to beat glass lenses. I have the relay upgrade on my Burban.

Mollzyie · 02-10-2017, 10:16 PM

Lots of good info dudes ... from the budget stuff to the jw stuff

What about tail lights/lenses ? Anybody ever try or thought about putting one of those led light bars that goes across bottom of the tailgate ?

Z10 · 02-10-2017, 11:02 PM

I bought some glass H4 headlights off of eBay which resemble the stock style and LED H4 bulbs. Light output and color is good while maintaining a near OEM look.

cherokeejohn · 02-11-2017, 02:31 AM

check out a Ebay seller Octane Lighting, they have many options at a wide price range from $35 to $200. I have the glass replacement ones with the H4 bulbs and the LED anytime running lights built in. They also have the relay kit, which I have also for $35 and it is a very good investment. I can run mine with just the LED running lights alone and they put off better lighting than the originals. I might have $125 invested in my headlights, LED wiring and relay and headlamp relay all together. I have bad eyesight, so for me they were almost a necessity. As for the rear LED strip, I have one of these also but have not installed it yet as I have some body work to fix at the mounting area. Hope this helps.

**Already Gone** · 02-11-2017, 05:13 PM

A set of these with the relay harness will give super bright headlights and keep things simple and inexpensive.

http://www.uapac.com/antique/7-cryst...und-boxed.html

cpnbnanamn · 02-11-2017, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 71BUCKET

I'm looking at doing the JW speaker evolution led headlights

How does it look? I looked at the JW Speakers stuff... I'd love to see what it looks like at night, and during the day.

Andy4639 · 02-11-2017, 06:10 PM

Here is what I did. first you need max power at the head light connections which if you are running a stock truck with no relays you are not getting true 12 volts to the lights. All you have to do it test each lead with a volt meter. I was getting like 10.5-11 volts before the relay upgrade.

I installed relays for both L/H beam then bought a set of 7" Tri Bar's lights with replacement bulbs. I ran those for several years.
The lights are 60/55 watt's.
Here is a old thread I did. I have since upgraded the lights to a LED park light and blinker but same bulbs.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=630581

Here are a couple of pictures of the new ones.

cpnbnanamn · 02-11-2017, 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LockDoc

-
I used Jeep Wrangler headlights in my '67 Panel Truck. Jeep JK Wrangler headlights ('07-current) are a direct bolt in swap for the old sealed beam headlights in our trucks. They even have the 3 lugs on the back for alignment and use the stock '67-'72 trim rings. I went ahead and bought the headlight conversion pigtails for the swap too.

I bought both on e-Bay. Here are the actual pigtails I bought and the headlights I bought were from a private seller that changed his over to something different. They are in excellent condition. You have to be careful because there are a lot of look alikes. They do make exact replacements too but you have to watch, some of them come with bulbs and some don't. The easy way to tell the OEM's are by the back. I think the lights are the same from 2007-2015.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/130940451329...AIT&rmvSB=true

LockDoc

I've been kinda leaning toward Wrangler headlights.. The only thing I'm concerned with is the oxidization of the lenses that Chrysler was so famous for. I'm wondering if there is a glass version of those.
The Hella's have the light pattern stuff in them, and I haven't looked at the KC Lights yet.

**HO455** · 02-11-2017, 06:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LockDoc

-
I used Jeep Wrangler headlights in my '67 Panel Truck. Jeep JK Wrangler headlights ('07-current) are a direct bolt in swap for the old sealed beam headlights in our trucks. They even have the 3 lugs on the back for alignment and use the stock '67-'72 trim rings. I went ahead and bought the headlight conversion pigtails for the swap too.

I bought both on e-Bay. Here are the actual pigtails I bought and the headlights I bought were from a private seller that changed his over to something different. They are in excellent condition. You have to be careful because there are a lot of look alikes. They do make exact replacements too but you have to watch, some of them come with bulbs and some don't. The easy way to tell the OEM's are by the back. I think the lights are the same from 2007-2015.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/130940451329...AIT&rmvSB=true

LockDoc

I wondered about those Jeep lights. I checked out a broken one at the body shop but it was in too many pieces for me to be sure it would fit. Are there a left and right or just one version for both sides?
Thanks in advance.

**LockDoc** · 02-11-2017, 08:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HO455

I wondered about those Jeep lights. I checked out a broken one at the body shop but it was in too many pieces for me to be sure it would fit. Are there a left and right or just one version for both sides?
Thanks in advance.

I don't really know. I just bought mine as a pair.

LockDoc

Mollzyie · 02-11-2017, 08:56 PM

[QUOTE=Andy4639;7855568][B][COLOR="red"]

Nice Andy .... Hey u have a pic of front end w lights off !

Andy4639 · 02-11-2017, 09:33 PM

[quote=Mollzyie;7855723]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy4639

[B][COLOR="red"]

Nice Andy .... Hey u have a pic of front end w lights off !

This is all I have. The driving lights come on with the park lights. I need to add another switch but never have.

Mollzyie · 02-11-2017, 10:19 PM

[quote=Andy4639;7855760]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mollzyie

This is all I have. The driving lights come on with the park lights. I need to add another switch but never have.

Preciate the reply ... Was interested in your bumper/lower lights . Wanted to see wat u did there .

Blue72slab · 02-11-2017, 11:02 PM

I would start by installing relays and see what you think. They make a big difference and you will need them anyway. Make sure to use fusible link wire or a fuse on your power wire to the relays. MadElectrical.com has good info on upgrading the charging system if you are not keeping it stock.

cpnbnanamn · 02-12-2017, 12:37 AM

I've already got a relay harness en route. I should look into upgrading the charging system, too. Might wait on that to do when I upgrade the engine.

Andy4639 · 02-12-2017, 10:41 AM

[quote=Mollzyie;7855819]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy4639

Preciate the reply ... Was interested in your bumper/lower lights . Wanted to see wat u did there .

Yea hold on. They are the Creed LED lights.
Here you go and a link to when I installed them.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s....php?p=7653622

bkent · 02-12-2017, 10:49 AM

i was thinking of getting these ones from amazon...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V8ZJ9IU...BQI7KDVY&psc=1

02-10-2017, 01:55 PM	#1
cpnbnanamn Registered User Join Date: Dec 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 115	Headlight options - Updates? So, I've been reading through many of the threads, most of which are very dated, as to what options there are for updating the headlights in the truck. I've read about the pros/cons of HID's, and don't think I"m going to go that route. I'm more interested in changing out the headlight in my '67 C10 to something that has a good light pattern, and I can change out the bulb without having to tear apart the front end to do it.. I looked at the Hella option, too.. not sure I'm a fan of that, either. What have you all found that works well? I'd like to see some options that are more up to date. I do have a relay harness en route from GMachinz, so that's taken care of..

02-10-2017, 02:10 PM	#2
onebigjohn Registered User Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Riverside Ca Posts: 358	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I have these in my VW Thing...And got a set for my 72' but not installed yet. They work awesome!!! Perfect White Perfect Pattern Wish I had pics... https://vintagecarleds.com/ __________________ "I pawned my Hanso" "Hold my beer, Watch this"

02-10-2017, 03:21 PM	#3
Willie Makeit Registered User Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: Alabama Posts: 1,206	Re: Headlight options - Updates? E-cod Hellas and a relay harness upgrade. Best bang for the $$$.

02-10-2017, 04:08 PM	#4
Mollzyie Registered User Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Miami fl Posts: 289	Re: Headlight options - Updates? Thanks for making this thread op ... Iv been meaning to make same one ... I've googled to see what's out there . Interested in aftermarket headlight/taillights . What have u guys tried ? Regretted ? On your wish list ? Thanks dudes __________________ M.A.G.A.

02-10-2017, 05:32 PM	#6
cleszkie Registered User Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Santa Ana, CA Posts: 2,191	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I run a set of KC Daylighter DOT approved LED headlamps. They cost a bit more than those Vintage Car LEDs, but that is probably due to the DOT rating. I also did the headlight relay upgrade. Attached Images

02-10-2017, 07:03 PM	#7
71BUCKET Registered User Join Date: Jul 2016 Location: Savannah GA Posts: 169	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I'm looking at doing the JW speaker evolution led headlights

02-10-2017, 07:55 PM	#8
LockDoc The Older Generation Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Montezuma, Iowa Posts: 25,321	Re: Headlight options - Updates? - I used Jeep Wrangler headlights in my '67 Panel Truck. Jeep JK Wrangler headlights ('07-current) are a direct bolt in swap for the old sealed beam headlights in our trucks. They even have the 3 lugs on the back for alignment and use the stock '67-'72 trim rings. I went ahead and bought the headlight conversion pigtails for the swap too. I bought both on e-Bay. Here are the actual pigtails I bought and the headlights I bought were from a private seller that changed his over to something different. They are in excellent condition. You have to be careful because there are a lot of look alikes. They do make exact replacements too but you have to watch, some of them come with bulbs and some don't. The easy way to tell the OEM's are by the back. I think the lights are the same from 2007-2015. http://www.ebay.com/itm/130940451329...AIT&rmvSB=true LockDoc __________________ Leon Locksmith, Specializing In Antique Trucks, Automobiles, & Motorcycles (My Dually Pickup Project Thread) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=829820 -

02-10-2017, 07:58 PM	#9
HO455 Post Whore Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: Portland Oregon Posts: 10,791	Re: Headlight options - Updates? 1995 vintage Hella euro non dot H-4's. Over 90,000 miles on them and still great. They are on their second vehicle. Hard to beat glass lenses. I have the relay upgrade on my Burban. __________________ Thanks to Bob and Jeanie and everyone else at Superior Performance for all their great help. RIP Bob Parks. 1967 Burban the WMB,1991 S(stink)-10 Blazer,1969 GTO, 1970 Javelin, 1952 F2 Ford 4X4, 29 Model A, 72 Firebird. 85 Alfa Romeo If it breaks I didn't want it in the first place The WMB repair thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=698377

02-10-2017, 10:16 PM	#10
Mollzyie Registered User Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Miami fl Posts: 289	Re: Headlight options - Updates? Lots of good info dudes ... from the budget stuff to the jw stuff What about tail lights/lenses ? Anybody ever try or thought about putting one of those led light bars that goes across bottom of the tailgate ? __________________ M.A.G.A. Last edited by Mollzyie; 02-10-2017 at 10:25 PM.

02-10-2017, 11:02 PM	#11
Z10 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Midland, TX Posts: 1,267	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I bought some glass H4 headlights off of eBay which resemble the stock style and LED H4 bulbs. Light output and color is good while maintaining a near OEM look. Attached Images __________________ 1969 RS/SS Z10 Camaro Pace coupe 1972 GMC Short Step buildhttp://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post6356218 1979 Mazda RX7 1979 Pontiac Trans Am WS6 & 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 10th Anniversary 1999 Honda Valkyrie 2006 Corvette Z06 2010 BMW 650i

02-11-2017, 02:31 AM	#12
cherokeejohn Registered User Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Wasteminster, Maryland Posts: 409	Re: Headlight options - Updates? check out a Ebay seller Octane Lighting, they have many options at a wide price range from $35 to $200. I have the glass replacement ones with the H4 bulbs and the LED anytime running lights built in. They also have the relay kit, which I have also for $35 and it is a very good investment. I can run mine with just the LED running lights alone and they put off better lighting than the originals. I might have $125 invested in my headlights, LED wiring and relay and headlamp relay all together. I have bad eyesight, so for me they were almost a necessity. As for the rear LED strip, I have one of these also but have not installed it yet as I have some body work to fix at the mounting area. Hope this helps. Attached Images __________________ 72 C/10, LWB, 5.7, Auto, with A/C F.B.I = Full Blood Indian Appalachia/Eastern Cherokee,"Tsalagi" Last edited by cherokeejohn; 02-11-2017 at 02:36 AM.

02-11-2017, 05:13 PM	#13
Already Gone 70+ ( Old Skool Club ) Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan ,Canada Posts: 9,073	Re: Headlight options - Updates? A set of these with the relay harness will give super bright headlights and keep things simple and inexpensive. http://www.uapac.com/antique/7-cryst...und-boxed.html __________________ 1972 C10 Custom/Deluxe 613 Highlander 406/700R4 1999 White Tahoe LS 4x2 with Z56 Police Package 1992 K1500 GMC Suburban Members I have personally met: MusicMan70 - HeavyD - ChewyChevy67 - StingRay -71SWB4x4 - 67 Burb - DeadheadNM - too much stuff - bc65 - das601 " Circumsatances Do Not Change Responsibility " " The Sky is not the Limit, Your Mind is." Marilyn Monroe .. RIP Charlie Watts 1941 - 2021

02-11-2017, 06:10 PM	#15
Andy4639 Old member Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Liberty, & Garden City S.C. , U.S. Posts: 19,936	Re: Headlight options - Updates? Here is what I did. first you need max power at the head light connections which if you are running a stock truck with no relays you are not getting true 12 volts to the lights. All you have to do it test each lead with a volt meter. I was getting like 10.5-11 volts before the relay upgrade. I installed relays for both L/H beam then bought a set of 7" Tri Bar's lights with replacement bulbs. I ran those for several years. The lights are 60/55 watt's. Here is a old thread I did. I have since upgraded the lights to a LED park light and blinker but same bulbs. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=630581 Here are a couple of pictures of the new ones. Attached Images __________________ 1971 LWB Custom, 6.0LS & 4L80E, Speedhut.com GPS speedometer & gauges with A/C. 20" Boss 338's Grey wheels 4 wheel disc brakes. My Driver Seeing the USA in a 71 Upstate SC GM Truck Club 2013,14 and 2016 Hot Rod Pour Tour http://upstategmtrucks.com/ Get out and drive the truck this summer and have some fun! It sucks not being able to hear! LWB trucks rule, if you don't think so measure your SWB! After talking to tech support at Air Lift I have found out that the kit I need is 60811. Per the measurements I gave them. Ride height of truck inside spring and inside diameter of springs.

02-11-2017, 08:56 PM	#19
Mollzyie Registered User Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Miami fl Posts: 289	Re: Headlight options - Updates? [QUOTE=Andy4639;7855568][B][COLOR="red"] Nice Andy .... Hey u have a pic of front end w lights off ! __________________ M.A.G.A.

02-11-2017, 11:02 PM	#22
Blue72slab Registered User Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: La Quinta, CA Posts: 72	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I would start by installing relays and see what you think. They make a big difference and you will need them anyway. Make sure to use fusible link wire or a fuse on your power wire to the relays. MadElectrical.com has good info on upgrading the charging system if you are not keeping it stock. __________________ Larry 1972 Chevy C20 Custom Camper 1968 Chevy Camaro RS 1980 GMC K5 Sierra Classic



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02-12-2017, 12:37 AM	#23
cpnbnanamn Registered User Join Date: Dec 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 115	Re: Headlight options - Updates? I've already got a relay harness en route. I should look into upgrading the charging system, too. Might wait on that to do when I upgrade the engine.

02-12-2017, 10:49 AM	#25
bkent Registered User Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: cashmere Posts: 11	Re: Headlight options - Updates? i was thinking of getting these ones from amazon... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V8ZJ9IU...BQI7KDVY&psc=1

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