Wiring the headlights to battery?
Wiring the headlights to battery? I have a Caspers Electronics volt booster on my car. How it works is, under WOT it increases the voltage about 2.2 volts.
Well, I have HIDS, and this voltage "spike" is burning out one of the balasts. I was thinking, could I just wire the headlights to go straight to the battery, and bypass the alternator? I could put a couple of relays and a fuse as well. Any thoughts on this?
Jimmy
Well, I have HIDS, and this voltage "spike" is burning out one of the balasts. I was thinking, could I just wire the headlights to go straight to the battery, and bypass the alternator? I could put a couple of relays and a fuse as well. Any thoughts on this?
Jimmy
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 11,328
Likes: 345
From: Jacksonville, FL (originally from Toronto Canada)
No, the electrical system is a closed circuit so it won't make any difference. Since the alternator is connected to the battery, whatever voltage the alternator puts into the system will be the same voltage you get whether you connect to the battery or anywhere else in the car. You could add a resistor to reduce the voltage but it would do that all the time - probably not what you want. Perhaps you could get one of the old external voltage regulators and wire it inline with the ballasts.
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 11,328
Likes: 345
From: Jacksonville, FL (originally from Toronto Canada)
They were standard equipment on many older models of car - most imports (Datsun, Honda) and many Fords in the 70s. I found one for 65-86 Mustang selling for $12.95 on eBay. Google "external voltage regulator" or check your local auto parts store - they should have an old Echlin or similar catalog that will list regulators.
EDIT: I found a solid state replacement for the old mechanical external regulators. It's a Wells VR715 available from AutoZone. It was designed for old Buick Rivieras and probably several other GM models.
EDIT: I found a solid state replacement for the old mechanical external regulators. It's a Wells VR715 available from AutoZone. It was designed for old Buick Rivieras and probably several other GM models.
Last edited by WhiteBird00; Jul 19, 2007 at 03:27 PM.
