Headlight bulb help!

[Fawkesy]

One of my bulbs went on my Interstate. (45/45).  Had a hell of a time getting the bulb out (shop manual has no instructions for I/S).
Went to the auto parts store - no bulb. Do I have to go to the dealer?
I've heard here somewhere that guys have changed bulbs to something else?
Help!

[Joe Hummer]

I have a pair of 9003 Silverstars in my IS.  Much brighter than the stock bulbs. 

Here are instructions on Shoptalk...  http://www.valkyrieriders.com/shoptalk/interstateheadlight.htm

You don't have to use the adapter ring...just clip off the bottom two tabs and it will fit right in. 

Joe

[Fawkesy]

Thanks so much.

[Jess from VA]

Any standard auto parts 55/60 H4 halogen (9003) will fit, once the tabs are cut off.

Many order off road 80/100 9003s for only a little more, and the brightness is greatly improved day and night, properly aimed headlights do not get flashed at night on dims (80W), and they have been run for years with no heat issues in the fairing, bulb socket or wiring (the IS fairing breathes/is vented very well.... these cannot be used in the std/tourer bucket).

Read the reviews, some are better than others (ie bad write-ups on the Hella Optilux)

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=80%2F100+H4+bulbs&x=11&y=17

I could never find them in stock at auto parts counters.

[gordonv]

Also, you might find it a lot easier if you get a women or child to change it for you. If your hands are too big, you'll have no room to get to it.

Mine are not over large, and I'm quite dexteris, but I have my sister change  it out in 1/2 a minute after I struggled for 5.

Others have also said to remove the fairing from the bike, only takes a few minutes, and then it is VERY easy to get to them to change them both out at the same time. Should be set for a long time. Also, don't forget about those screws connectors, if they haven't been removed, now is a good time to insure they aren't seized, and/or to fix them.

[MarkT]

...and they have been run for years with no heat issues in the fairing, bulb socket or wiring (the IS fairing breathes/is vented very well.... these cannot be used in the std/tourer bucket).

I have been running a 130/90 bulb in my standard for 12 years.  Heat not an issue.  Wiring is upgraded.