Date:         Wed, 11 Apr 2007 15:03:33 -0400
Reply-To:     Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
Subject:      Re: h4 headlights
Comments: To: The Bus Depot <vanagon@BUSDEPOT.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <005301c77c59$369dbff0$0b0ba8c0@RON>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed

I'm going to modify your claim. H4 headlights CAN be legal in the US.

The rule is, if the headlights are custom built for the car, they are
okay. The rectangular H4 headlights are specific to the Vanagon, and
I've never had a problem with yearly inspections in the very strict
Commonwealth of Virginia (the fact that they haven't given me a
problem isn't an assurance, but I have also asked those stricter
inspectors what the rules are.)

The $35 headlights you are advertising are ROUND not rectangular. I
haven't dealt with that style, so can't speak to their legality.


On Apr 11, 2007, at 12:48 PM, The Bus Depot wrote:

> This is a really cheap and easy upgrade to any '80-85 Vanagon that
> makes a
> huge difference. We sell 3 different options, starting at $35/pair.
> It's
> worth noting that technically H4 headlights are not street-legal in
> the
> U.S., so it is possible (athough rather rare) for you to get
> hassled at
> inspection time. (So it may be worth keeping your old sealed-beams;
> it only
> takes a few minutes to swap back.)  Therefore we specify that they are
> intended for off-road use only.  Hella does make a street-legal
> version
> (also on our site), although it is pricier and not quite as bright
> as the
> others.