Gtec HID......Install

[patroa1]

Well, the temps finally got above freezing so I thought I would install my HID low beam. Job took approx. 2hrs. only because working with tri-focals is a pain.

First drill a 13/16" but no larger than 7/8ths" hole in headlight housing. Then basically follow Joe's instructions in this thread.http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18357 :D Once I had the bulb installed and the headlight buttoned -up (the clips that hold bulb in place locked down with just a slight bit of pressure with a small screwdriver) I had to find a suitable place for the ballast. Finally found a spot .

I located the ballast between the forks on the frame, using the mounting holes on the ballast to run the wire ties to the frame. The ballast will clear the forks when going lock to lock.

Once that was done I just wire tied excess cable to frame.:dance:

[jackd]

It has been a while since I installed mine but I believe there was a warning with the instructions on the units that I installed about not putting the ballast into a 'real wet' position.. i.e. as dry a location as possible.

[bmwstve]

Pat, I've been looking for a place to mount the ballast, is this the only place you could find? I was trying to find a place a little more protected from the weather than your setup. If anybody has any other ideas I sure would appreciate the help.

[Texas42]

I used the double sided tape that came with it and put on top of the light assembly. To get to all of this I remove the nose cone, I don't think I could have installed this way without removing everything and assembling it off of the bike.

[patroa1]

Steve, that's not my first choice for locating the ballast and I will probably move it later.

I have been looking at removing the windshield and dash (only 7 screws) and putting it inside the front cowl. Should be plenty of room in there. Just need an extra set of hands with the windshield. I would definitely put it in there if I was doing both high and low beams.

As far as being dry area, where I have it now is probably no worse than anywhere else on front frame. If you look at pic #3, at top left is the control unit for my headlight modulator, that little sucker has been there 3yrs. no problem.:)

Basically just wanted to make sure everything worked. Theres a tech session coming up this spring in Mich. probably move it then.

Boy is that sucker BRIIIGGHHT:D makes high beam and lights under tip-over wings look anemic. :cool:

[grifscoots]

Just need an extra set of hands with the windshield.

Sounds like you have an Aeroflow windshield. If not, I'm not sure I understand???

I would definitely move the ballast. Your location is a bad wet spot and putting it under the cowling is real easy and very dry.

[patroa1]

Sounds like you have an Aeroflow windshield. If not, I'm not sure I understand???

I would definitely move the ballast. Your location is a bad wet spot and putting it under the cowling is real easy and very dry.

Grif, I agree and will move ballast, not that hard of a job. As for windshield, it is a stock shield and I've had it off before,not much trouble coming off but asked my SO to help hold it when I put it back on. Believe me in this case it's true what they say about Blondes.;) Love the woman dearly but, just don't ask for mechanical help like "hold this while I start the screws". It's a good thing I have a sense of humor.

Before I move anything need to clean garage so I have more room to work. Right now it's full of new windows, wonderboard, granite tile and trim work. Jeeez now I'am really tired:rotf:

[docpc]

Steve, that's not my first choice for locating the ballast and I will probably move it later.

I have been looking at removing the windshield and dash (only 7 screws) and putting it inside the front cowl. Should be plenty of room in there. Just need an extra set of hands with the windshield. I would definitely put it in there if I was doing both high and low beams.

There's plenty of room to install ballasts on top of the headlight housing on the '99-'04 models (mine is an '01). I attached mine with industrial velcro (from Home Depot) and they haven't moved in 5K miles.

If you think the low beam is bright, wait until you try both high and low beams with HID!!!

I almost don't even need the Hella and PIAA driving lights that are mounted under the mirrors and in the radiator cowl opening... :D