66-77 Bronco H4 Halogen and LED Headlight Installation Guide

Overview of H4 Halogen and LED Headlights

Headlights are a critical component of a vehicle, contributing not only to visibility but also to safety. In recent years, there has been a shift from traditional halogen headlights to LED lights due to their efficiency, brightness, and durability. This article will provide an educational overview of the two most common types of headlights: H4 halogen and LED, focusing on their features, installation, and benefits.

H4 Halogen Headlights

Halogen headlights, specifically the H4 type, have been a staple in the automotive industry for many years. They contain a tungsten filament encased in a halogen gas, which produces light when electrically charged. Key features of H4 halogen headlights include:

Affordability: Halogen lights are generally less expensive compared to newer technologies like LEDs.

Ease of Installation: The video highlights how the H4 halogen lights are easy to install and compatible with most vehicles using the harness mentioned.

LED Headlights

LED headlights have become increasingly popular due to their brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity. These lights use semiconductors to emit light when an electric current is passed through them. LED headlights offer several advantages over halogen lights, including:

Energy Efficiency: LEDs use significantly less power than halogen lights, making them more eco-friendly and reducing strain on the vehicle’s electrical system.

Longer Lifespan: LEDs last much longer than halogen bulbs, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Brightness and Focus: LEDs provide a brighter, whiter light, improving visibility, especially at night. The video demonstrates the halo feature of the LED headlights, which is a distinct characteristic that can be connected to the vehicle’s running lights, adding to their functionality.

Installation Process

The video provides a step-by-step guide on how to install both H4 halogen and LED headlights, using a relay harness (PN 1471) to connect the lights. The key steps involve:

1. Removing the Headlight Bezels and Retaining Ring: This is necessary to access the existing headlights and prepare the vehicle for the new lights.

2. Wiring the Relay Harness: The harness is a plug-and-play system that connects to the vehicle’s battery and the headlight sockets. The diode in the harness allows the low beams to stay on even when the high beams are activated, significantly improving brightness.

3. Final Setup: Once the wiring is complete, the lights are mounted, and the system is tested to ensure functionality. The video emphasizes disconnecting the negative battery cable before any electrical work to prevent accidental short circuits.

Advantages of Using a Relay Harness

One of the key advantages discussed in the video is the use of a relay harness. The relay harness helps manage the electrical load more effectively, ensuring that both the low and high beams work together seamlessly. It also provides protection against electrical surges, safeguarding both the headlights and the vehicle’s electrical system.

The diode, as mentioned earlier, plays a crucial role in maintaining both beams on at the same time, enhancing visibility and making nighttime driving safer.

Conclusion

Both H4 halogen and LED headlights have their unique benefits. While halogen lights are affordable and easy to install, LEDs are brighter, more energy-efficient, and offer a longer lifespan. The TOMS OFFROAD video provides valuable insights into the installation and features of these headlights, making it easier for vehicle owners to upgrade their lighting system. By following the steps outlined in the video, users can enhance their Broncos performance and safety.