Altransit wrote:conrod wrote:Following on from the Biodes, Cibie made a 7" headlamp called the "Z" Beam, which is probably what you had in your Escort.
That does sound like the puppy
Strange that Cibie could make an H4 unit into a floodlight, when every vehicle that I've had since, (also fitted with an H4) has been mediocre at best
Maybe my eyesight was just better back then
I suppose that every headlight since those days being a unique shape to the vehicle, has put the kybosh on the aftermarket manufacture of standard round headlights, although there must be a market for a retrofit H4 unit, due to all of the classics with their "Lucas sealed beams" (Including my Mini!)
Hahaa, my eyesight was better back then too!
The 7" round headlight was an ideal shape to project light forward. Square and rectangular H4 headlights were basically the same as these with the edges cut down, so light output was really shitty on many of these. Strangely enough, the Mk2 Transit headlights (square ones) have a really good light output, as long as there is 12+ volts at the bulb! I also have a Focus with HID lights, I will park it alongside the Transit one night and compare the light output just out of curiosity.
I think the market for 7" headlight replacements is miniscule compared to what it was back then, hence the small selection. There were a few manufacturers (Hella springs to mind, and Carello too) which made a 7" H4 headlight with concave lens. These were a good looking unit.
I have seen those Wipac freeform lights, they are probably a good unit. I just don't like the look of those on an old vehicle, and even less so the various LED and "angel eye" headlights that are flowing out of China. Many of those have a very patchy light output at best, and are not legal for road use.
Nice to see some other headlight anoraks like myself out there, it can be a lonely place sometimes!