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130 watt driving lamps

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Old 01-29-2009, 09:08 AM
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Default 130 watt driving lamps

howdy, anyone have any imput about adding 130w. off road lights. i have the factory fogs so i know i can just replace/rewire. do the higher wattage lights create more draw on the alternator/should it be upgraded, or is it as simple as changing them out?
Old 01-29-2009, 09:25 AM
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It should be as simple as changing them out. Upgrading only two of the lights doesnt really justify an alternator upgrade.
Old 01-29-2009, 11:41 AM
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yeah just two lights aint gonna hurt nothin, id say at the most get a new batt if the one is really old
Old 01-29-2009, 11:46 AM
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you may need to run a larger gauge wire to supply enough current. What are the factory fogs rated at?
Old 01-29-2009, 04:14 PM
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i put 100 watt bulbs in some cheap pro-comp fogs and 130 watt bulbs in my hellas using 12 gauge wire and they work great, cant see any differences in battery/alternator performance
Old 01-29-2009, 06:16 PM
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you need to run MUCH larger wire and a relay to use the factory fog switch. might as well just start over with new wiring.
Old 01-29-2009, 10:39 PM
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not sure what my factory ones are rated at cherokee4meplz, i'm guessing around 50(?) thanks for all the input, though - i'll let you know how it goes...
Old 01-29-2009, 10:43 PM
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the only reason that I would go with an altenator upgrade is if you plan on putting in selectable lockers with an onboard compressor or anything else that will draw power.
Old 01-29-2009, 11:11 PM
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Originally Posted by muddpigg
not sure what my factory ones are rated at cherokee4meplz, i'm guessing around 50(?) thanks for all the input, though - i'll let you know how it goes...
less i think. if you just throw 130s in there i already know how itll end, carry a fire extinguisher with you.

Originally Posted by FrankSchmeiser
the only reason that I would go with an altenator upgrade is if you plan on putting in selectable lockers with an onboard compressor or anything else that will draw power.
thats a silly reason. i run plenty on my 90A without an issue. unless your running all your lights at once, a/c, a hi-po amp+sub, and compressor at the same time... and a winch....

the 90a is fine for most
Old 01-30-2009, 11:03 AM
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As has already been stated, you will need to upgrade the entire fog light wiring harness and run relays . OE fog housing were designed for 55 watts. I'll bet you'll melt your housing connectors, etc. The heat generated by 130's may overheat any number of components inside the housings.

If you avoid the above, (again as has already been stated) carry a fire extinguisher. Also be aware if a line melts and shorts to ground, you could have bigger issues then a loss of fog lights .

If you use these on-road with on-coming traffic you'll create a not only unhappy drivers, but a risk to everyone.

This can be done, you just need to be careful with design and aware of other drivers.
Old 01-30-2009, 11:07 AM
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Originally Posted by 93XJLI
less i think. if you just throw 130s in there i already know how itll end, carry a fire extinguisher with you.



thats a silly reason. i run plenty on my 90A without an issue. unless your running all your lights at once, a/c, a hi-po amp+sub, and compressor at the same time... and a winch....

the 90a is fine for most
it may be silly but I jump at the chance for any upgrade and it gives me peace of mind while out on the trail.
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