Go to www.woodtrim.com and check out Joshua Tree, they have what you want and always seem to have a sale on which is probably the regular price. I put this on my 01 M but I have the real burl wood, but I am very happy with the product and their service.
Joe's clear brake light mold and technique are flawless. The lens was perfect and easily replaced in under 30 minutes. I think it looks terrific especially with Bright Silver Metallic paint. Here are a few pics: http://glennbp.bizland.com/RBL1.jpg
The clear lens looks great on the silver metallic. Try to get sdmike or mikeyjohn to try it on their inferno reds so I can see what it would look like. Somehow I think it may detract from the over all red appearance of the trunk
Sorry Mike, I won't be doing that. I like mine just the way it is, besides being an ex-constabulary I don't want to run foul of the boys in blue, because the Highway Traffic Act states that you cannot show white light to the rear, other than back-up lights. I know that some people are putting in red bulbs but what about the ones who don't, besides I like my points and my money in my pocket, but then again YOU could be the guinea pig. lol
I don't think the clear lens would look good on red. I mean the stock red lens already blends nicely with the paint color. If you have a lighter metallic color though like the silvers or beiges, the clear blends in nicely. Who in their right mind would NOT use a red bulb with a clear lens in their brake light?!? Why in the world have "white light" coming on when you hit the brakes?!? Do people actually do that?!? Seems to me that would be asking to get rear-ended!!!
As long as it has a red bulb in it, it should be legal. The lens on most colors would not look good. I think on white and silver and the light green cars it would be OK though.
Doe to insufficient numbers, (I even contacted the other LH boards) I have cancelled the group purchase of the HID conversion kits. As I have an extra 300M headlamp assembly, I may try to modify it to accept the standard (non XS) bulbs. Anything for science.
There will always be somebody to test the water and push it as far as they can. I just have to look around here to see the headlights on some of these cars. I have checked with some of my old police buddies and they are making a fortune for the city in fines levied for illegal lighting.
I would suggest that you check with your local authorities in regards to these brake lights, and if they agree that it is legal then you have your answer, but I would not be too surprised if they ruled in the negative.
around the rear plate, and never had anyone stop, o even question it. It is the function they should be concerned about. I shouldn't matter what color the lens is as long as when you hit the brakes that light shines a bright red. It is like the front turn singals. Some are amber colored, some are clear jeweled, and some are clear as glass, but they all shine amber when the lights signal. As long as the clear lens have the properly colored bulb they are OK. Now if you put colored bulbs where they do not belong, then you can have big problems.
If clear lenses with red bulbs are illegal, then Cadillac has a big problem. For years now many Caddie models have "clear" tail lenses with red bulbs. I believe a few other cars had them as stock too. I agree with 300michael that as long as red is what shows up in the rear tail and brake lights, it's legal.
The clear lens looks good unlit with silver paint. Seems ok to me if it really glows a solid red with a red bulb installed. With my garnet paint I'll stick to the red lens. I did have to replace the bulb a week ago; kind of a pain to pull out about ten of those plastic pins that hold the trunk liner on (only pulled them off on one side, and that was enough to reach in and remove the dead bulb).
You know, in all my searching for HID "kits" I've yet to see a picture of any of them where the bulb has a 90deg bend like a 9005/6 bulb.
I know from experience that a standard 9005/6 bulb will fit an XS socket. I had PIAA's in my 98 Intrepid.
For those of us who've checked into it, what keeps us from using 9005/6 standard bulbs in a 300M is the raised collar around the socket that interferes with the 90deg bend that for some unknown reason the Intrepid lamps don't have.
So that raises one more question to me: What's the big whoop about 9005/6 XS HID kits? Are they ANY different from the standard 9005/6 kit if the bulb base is straight in both!
That is just about what my M is worth. If I ever sell it, it will probably go like this. "Wc will give you 9K for the car and 16K for the wheels and the audio/vidio systems" I do not like the looks of those wheels at all (sorry if someone hss them). I like styles that show a little disk. LIke the Vega from Zenitti.
The better HID bulbs do ahve a larger base (about twice the size of the Halagen bulb base). I am tring to get a HID 9006 bulb to experiment on my extra 300M assembly.
You have been doing your homework!! The only thing that could be different between the 9005/6 HID kit and the x/s kits are the box that they are packaged in which indicates 9005/6 or 9005/6 x/s. This done to give the buyer peace of mind that they are purchasing the correct kit.
The only difference between the 9005/6 halogen bulbs and the 9005/6(x/s) bulbs is that one has a 90 degree CONNECTOR base and the x/s has a straight base. Both styles use the same halogen capsules and thus have the same filament orientation and LCL (light center length), and same wattage ratings.
I have been researching HID conversion kits for about a year now and recall that when they first hit the market, kits were going for about $1000. I have only seen a few kits that actually had 90 degree bends.
One thing that bothers me about the kits "in question" is that no pictures of any of their kits show the necessary black masking on the HID capsule that is needed for a reflector type headlight assembly which is used on the 300M nor do they mention anything about having the correct LCL. One of the better sources for HID kits can be found here:
inhabited this board, but I need some help with my 2000 Intrepid ES...I would like to ask for your collective diagnostic brains...a problem just cropped up, and I wonder if there is a simple answer that has affected numerous Intrepids and Concordes and 300Ms...while driving at night, with the dashboard lights set around medium brightness, the dash lights will intermittently flash to maximum brightness, like a voltage surge, every 2 or 3 minutes...this goes on for about a half hour, and then stops for a week or two, and then returns...the lights that flash are the radio, heat/AC controls, overhead console, speedometer, tach, odometer, trans selector (PRNDL 1234), and the white reading lights in the overhead console...the exterior headlamps are unaffected, always a constant beam...at this point I have been unable to determine if my taillights are flashing along with the dash lights...I have heard of people complaining of the lights going completely out and dark, but not the opposite...my lights are momentarily flashing at maximum brilliance, and is very distracting...any thoughts on what could cause this, and where to look for a repair???...thanks
To test set the light dimmer on full the next time it happens. Usually it is a defective light switch. If it has gone on too long it could be the body control module.
what do you mean by "if it has gone on too long its the bcm"---I have the problem and they ordered the bcm--hope its not the dimmer---why do you test with dimmer all the way up?...
Hello group... Ive got a Non-Php '99 that I'd like to improve handling and was wondering if anyone has used the H&R kit which comes with the engine and trans mount spacer kit. The company rep says the spacers will slip right in and I'll have no virbration problem with the lowered ride. Is this correct or are they full of it? My car has 40K miles and im also considering replacing struts at the same time. Looking forward to hearing about your experiences and thanks Mike
Thanks for the info on the Yokohama YK420's. Unfortunately, there are no Discount Tire stores in MA and they don't sell those particular tires online. Since I don't have the PHP option, I think I'll give the Yoko Avid T4's a try. Thanks again!
It became apparent early on that there are only two automotive HID bulbs in use: D2S and D2R (or D1S & D1R if the igniter is integrated). The R is shielded for reflector type applications. The S for projector style applications.
I finally found one site that claims their kit has been engineered to maintain the correct focal point. I even found one that has a mechanical base that allows for LO/HI operation in a single bulb application. Moving the bulb in/out or up/down depending on filament orientation of the original halogen bulb. They look impressive but, again, they disclaim the use for off road only since they don't have DOT compliance.
Really when you look at the cost of these kits against what DC wants for 300M HID complete assemblies the assemblies are a relative bargain. Not cheap, but not outragous comparatively speaking.
Even if the bulbs light-up red, do the clear brake and taillight lenses reflect at night?
I was always under the impression that the red lenses served a secondary purpose, i.e. if a car is disabled, no battery power, no 4-way flasher, etc. and was parked on the shoulder, the red lenses would reflect approaching headlights and provide at least some degree of warning/protection.
It would seem that the "kewl clear lens" trend would defeat this (admittedly marginal) safety feature.
You're absolutely right and it's a legal requirement everywhere I haved lived; besides, reflectors have saved me from coming very close to hitting parked cars in total darkness. Some of the newer reflectors are almost as bright as regular taillights! Anyway, I don't plan on changing the taillight assemblies which have the built in reflectorization. The trunk mounted brake light has little if any reflective qualities. If you do want to go with completely clear taillight assemblies, I would simply add red reflectors which are readily available. You could even cut them into your own design and incorporate that into the clear taillight design. The possibilities are endless!
Look at these wheels--they can be yours for the mere price o only $13,600----and just over 16,000 if you want the tires incliuded---dont push and shove now---line up orderly for these major wheels sale---dont htink they would fit the M though as they are 24" wheels---unless you got the air suspension and pumped the suspension way up---
I have a non php with Intrax springs (very simular, just .3 lower then the H&R) with the H&R spacer kit. I had no detectable vibration but added the spacers to help insure no problems. I kept the stock struts, but it has some disadvantages. The ride is a little softer, but bottoms out easer. I have the PHP struts, but have not installed them, until I look at after market ones. Handling will improve, but watch the speed bumps and dips in the road, and those curb exits.
The first style of clear taillights to come out, were simply clear lenses. You were to put a red bulb inside. This meant the integrated reflecor made for a white light when your headlights hit it. Also, it was darn near impossible to find red bulbs that would last. Either the paint came off, or the bulb burned out. A coloured bulb in a white lens, will never provide the same lighting effect as a clear bulb in red lens. You usually see white everywhere, and a little red dot in the middle. Hardly a safe design.
New clear taillights are a custom made reflector with straight clear lens, and a cluster of internal red lenses over regular bulbs. These are legal because they conform to the "red lens and clear bulb" rule. -BlueBaron
Considering the normal brakelights are red lensed, I can't see the police bothering anyone about the upper brake light. Even with a white bulb in it.
The reason the old clear lights are illegal (even with red bulb) is that the relfector properties are obviously white, and that a red bulb doesn't light the assembly like a white bulb (less light than).
I know the law states new cars must have a 3rd brake light, but do they specify it must have a read lens? That might be a loop hole.
At any rate.. If you put in a clear lens, and quality red bulb(s), even an LED setup, I can't see the law having a problem with it. -BlueBaron
Please remember that if you do not OWN the photo, you should just post a link to it rather than display it - otherwise the Town Hall is open to copyright violation issues.
today I noticed a depression under the vinyl covering of the armrest on the drivers door. Does anyone know if there is a tsb for this. I have heard others here state they had the door panel replaced as it was considered a defect. It seems the plastic used in manufacturing the armrest is too thin and prone to cracking under slight pressure.
Or - why I never get tired of driving this car. Took about a 4 hour road trip out to Hutchinson Kansas to see the Kansas Cosmosphere with the wife and child. Drove about 90 mph on I-35 until the wife looked up and noticed the speedometer...she hadn't a clue I was going that fast. Chastised, I slowed it down to about 80. Drove about 100 miles on 2 lane and held it at about 75 mph. Occasionally had to pass some semis, or campers, and I still get a thrill how this car just flat out flies when passing. It was at 90 in the blink of an eye. The state of Kansas was kind enough to put in passing lanes about every 10 miles, allowing one to pass several vehicles at once. It wasn't uncommon to see the speedo past 100. And just rock solid. Had a BMW follow me on the way home, he never wanted to pass me...but he did take it up to 90 when I did. Now for the best part...despite speeds around 90, according to the trip computer, I averaged 27 MPG for the trip. This car is without a doubt one of the best driving vehicles on the road...bar none.
The company name is Autosport to to this link www.autosportcatalog.com
Just ordered a set for my 300M Special, even though they indicate 3 week delivery and they are made as ordered, they arrive in a couple of days. Actually they arrived at my daughters house in a couple of days. Since I live in Alaska they will not ship to Alaska. Always amuses me when people think Alaska is not a part of the US. I am waiting on my daughter to ship them to me. Bob
Warm enough for you? Yikes. When I got off the golf course today at 11:30 AM (yes, AM) my overhead display said 107. Once I was moving for a few miles it went down to 105, but holy stromboli!!
Comments
http://glennbp.bizland.com/RBL1.jpg
http://glennbp.bizland.com/RBL2.jpg
http://glennbp.bizland.com/RBL3.jpg
I would suggest that you check with your local authorities in regards to these brake lights, and if they agree that it is legal then you have your answer, but I would not be too surprised if they ruled in the negative.
I know from experience that a standard 9005/6 bulb will fit an XS socket. I had PIAA's in my 98 Intrepid.
For those of us who've checked into it, what keeps us from using 9005/6 standard bulbs in a 300M is the raised collar around the socket that interferes with the 90deg bend that for some unknown reason the Intrepid lamps don't have.
So that raises one more question to me: What's the big whoop about 9005/6 XS HID kits? Are they ANY different from the standard 9005/6 kit if the bulb base is straight in both!
http://www.superbuytires.com/wheels_by_brand.html?stage=2&brand=Davin&model=RS3.1&id=3228
I do not like the looks of those wheels at all (sorry if someone hss them). I like styles that show a little disk. LIke the Vega from Zenitti.
http://www.davinwheels.com/DavinTheatre.htm
The only difference between the 9005/6 halogen bulbs and the 9005/6(x/s) bulbs is that one has a 90 degree CONNECTOR base and the x/s has a straight base. Both styles use the same halogen capsules and thus have the same filament orientation and LCL (light center length), and same wattage ratings.
I have been researching HID conversion kits for about a year now and recall that when they first hit the market, kits were going for about $1000. I have only seen a few kits that actually had 90 degree bends.
One thing that bothers me about the kits "in question" is that no pictures of any of their kits show the necessary black masking on the HID capsule that is needed for a reflector type headlight assembly which is used on the 300M nor do they mention anything about having the correct LCL. One of the better sources for HID kits can be found here:
http://www.autolamps-online.com
Bob
Ive got a Non-Php '99 that I'd like to improve handling and was wondering if anyone has used the H&R kit which comes with the engine and trans mount spacer kit. The company rep says the spacers will slip right in and I'll have no virbration problem with the lowered ride. Is this correct or are they full of it? My car has 40K miles and im also considering replacing struts at the same time.
Looking forward to hearing about your experiences and thanks
Mike
I finally found one site that claims their kit has been engineered to maintain the correct focal point. I even found one that has a mechanical base that allows for LO/HI operation in a single bulb application. Moving the bulb in/out or up/down depending on filament orientation of the original halogen bulb. They look impressive but, again, they disclaim the use for off road only since they don't have DOT compliance.
Really when you look at the cost of these kits against what DC wants for 300M HID complete assemblies the assemblies are a relative bargain.
Not cheap, but not outragous comparatively speaking.
I was always under the impression that the red lenses served a secondary purpose, i.e. if a car is disabled, no battery power, no 4-way flasher, etc. and was parked on the shoulder, the red lenses would reflect approaching headlights and provide at least some degree of warning/protection.
It would seem that the "kewl clear lens" trend would defeat this (admittedly marginal) safety feature.
http://www.superbuytires.com/wheels_by_brand.html?stage=2&brand=Davin&model=RS3.3
I wouldnt want them at any price --the razorstars are much better looking
I did a photoshop job to this pic from the web. Gives you a good idea on the look I think.
-BlueBaron
New clear taillights are a custom made reflector with straight clear lens, and a cluster of internal red lenses over regular bulbs. These are legal because they conform to the "red lens and clear bulb" rule.
-BlueBaron
http://pub88.ezboard.com/f300menthusiastsclubfrm3.showMessage?topicID=46.topic
There is a test drive in Phila area Oct 10-13. I'm trying to get the locals together there
howard@visionconsultinggroup.com
The reason the old clear lights are illegal (even with red bulb) is that the relfector properties are obviously white, and that a red bulb doesn't light the assembly like a white bulb (less light than).
I know the law states new cars must have a 3rd brake light, but do they specify it must have a read lens? That might be a loop hole.
At any rate.. If you put in a clear lens, and quality red bulb(s), even an LED setup, I can't see the law having a problem with it.
-BlueBaron
2 pedestals with no center post...only mine has the center LED brake....
2) In order to "post" a picture, it must first be uploaded somewhere (i.e. your personal web site) then use the format:
"img src=http:// -insert the URL of your pic here- " (only use the left and right brackets < and > instead of quotes.)
3) The company that makes the clear plastic headlight covers is xpel (www.xpel.com)
Please remember that if you do not OWN the photo, you should just post a link to it rather than display it - otherwise the Town Hall is open to copyright violation issues.
Easyrider300M Y2K silver 300M non-php
www.autosportcatalog.com
Just ordered a set for my 300M Special, even though they indicate 3 week delivery and they are made as ordered, they arrive in a couple of days. Actually they arrived at my daughters house in a couple of days. Since I live in Alaska they will not ship to Alaska. Always amuses me when people think Alaska is not a part of the US. I am waiting on my daughter to ship them to me.
Bob