Neal, Replacing your current round headlights on your '81 with the square lights from a later Vanagon would be a huge mistake if you are looking for improved lighting (I assume that is your aim). The round headlights of the earlier Vanagons are superior to the later rectangular/square light arrangement. If you want to improve your lighting you should add relays for your current lights and/or install higher wattage bulbs. Both of these operations are fairly straight-forward. As an alternative, you could opt for one of the dual round South Africa grills. The dual round set up along with properly installed relays and higher wattage bulbs (be sure to aim your lights properly) and heavier wiring will give you by far the best lighting situation. I have installed the South Africa set-up on my '87 Vanagon, along with 10 gauge wiring, individual 30 amp relays, and in-line fuses. In addition, I have a pair of Projekt Zwo fog lights mounted just inboard of the turn signals. This combination will probably yield the very best results. It will cost a bit of money but it will be well worth it in terms of safety, visibility, and forward lighting. Cheers, Bruce motorbruce@hotmail.com
>From: Neal Powers <Neal354@WMCONNECT.COM> >Reply-To: Neal354@WMCONNECT.COM >To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM >Subject: grill >Date: Sat, 24 Sep 2005 16:24:48 EDT > >Thanks for the info on the doors heading for the junk yard early tomorrow, >one more question i have a 81 vanagon the 89 vanagon has 4 headlights I >think >they will fit the 81 if i replace the grill and all am i correct ?, Thanks >Neal |
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