Date:         Wed, 13 Sep 2000 23:27:10 -0400
Reply-To:     "Anthony L. Mourkas" <frankenstein@TELPLUS.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "Anthony L. Mourkas" <frankenstein@TELPLUS.NET>
Subject:      Re: Park Lights
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

>I looked at a European H4 conversion replacement light for my 84 Vanagon
>today.
>
>1. if i use the 55/60 watt bulb do i have to upgrade my switch

No, but you will greatly reduce the electrical load on the switch by
using a relay to control the lights.  Switch turns on the relay, relay
activates the lights.  Switch only has to carry enough current to
activate the relay.

>2. Will i notice a light output increase

Yes.  Even more so if you use a relay and 12 gauge or better wire to
supply power to the lights.

>3. what the ph*** is a park light???

Small 5 or 6 watt lamps inside the headlights that are wired into the
parking light circuit (headlight switch first position) and supply sort
of a soft glow out of the headlight reflectors.  Doesn't light up much,
but looks trick, and useful when pulling into a campsite late at night
when your neighbors are asleep.  Kinda surprised my mechanic Tuesday when
I had the van in for state inspection, but he was cool about it.

Tony

Anthony L. Mourkas
Hampden, Maine, USA
1984 Vanagon Westfalia
1991 Jetta Eco Diesel