9005 to 9011 Headlight Conversion

[Merrillspontiac]

I'm looking to convert my high beams on my 97 Olds 88 from 9005 to 9011 bulbs. Do I heed to modify anything else other than the one tab on the bulb? Thanks.

[sseilmnop]

Just have to modify the tab. You can do 9005 and 9006 to 9011 and 9012 HIR bulbs

[Merrillspontiac]

The 9011 is the high beam correct?

[RJolly87]

I have done this swap on both my PA, and Regal, and have many thoughts to share.

I purchased the Wagner branded units off of Rockauto (we have discount code)

9011 (Highbeam) http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php ... 39&jsn=294 ($8.57)
9012 (Lowbeam) (LongLife) http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php ... 76&jsn=311 ($17.05)

Nothing needs to be modified aside from the trimming of the top tab of the bulb. You should also plan on checking/adjusting the headlight alignment after the upgrade.

This simple drop in made a world of difference in my Regal. Simply awesome. I can probably stand to adjust one side down just a hair, as the beam cutoff is right on the edge of being too high. I have only been flashed once by oncoming traffic the entire time I have had them, and I believe it was thanks to a section of hill that put the oncoming driver's eyes below the cutoff. Out in dark open road, it really pays for itself. It's simply amazing.

However...

It made no perceptible difference in the Park Avenue oddly enough. The headlights still suck. 92-99 C/H Bodies have notoriously thin wiring going to the headlights. A headlight relay harness is often a recommended upgrade. Also, my headlights are closing in on 200k miles worth of action showing on them. This isn't immediately apparent because the outer lens is glass in my case, however the reflectors are absolutely trashed, something I realized upon closer inspection. The worst section ironically enough is at the top of the reflector, above the bulb, namely, the part of the housing that puts the light on the road. Also, there are alignment issues with the headlights as well in my case, thanks to an animal strike in the front.

Also, I recall the need to be fairly selective as far as bulb manufacturer. It seems like some non-reputable manufacturer like to stick a 9005/9006 bulb on the 9011/9012 base and call it a day, thus negating any upgrade potential you would have. You may want to read up on that concern a bit. I don't recall any sources off the top of my head.

Finally, be aware that this mod IS NOT DOT compliant, making it illegal for use on American roadways. It is my belief however that only only Inspector Clouseau himself could spot this violation. Someone would have to be looking for it to spot it, and they are usually not looking for it if there is not something stupid going on. Another argument in favor of realignment when done, and double checking once dark.

In conclusion...

Before you pull the trigger:
-Check your headlight housing condition, including tightness of alignment hardware, condition/clarity of front lens, condition of reflector, etc
-Consider a relay harness
-Purchase only reputable units

Enjoy!