Sealed Headlight Conversion

or "H4 conversion"

This write up details a Sealed Headlamp Conversion. Please check with local laws before doing this conversion. This write up is just an example of a headlight conversion, any modifications are up to the owner of the vehicle. Keystone Krawlers cannot be held liable for the owners actions.

Difficulty: 1 on a scale of 5 (in my case make that a 3)

Tools used: Phillips screwdriver, a 7/16" wrench (for the brushguard), and a big flat tip I used as a pry bar- Toyota could have really improved their headlight design as 3 of the 4 mounting screws were difficult to get to.
The Conversion: A typical replacement headlight unit will be the lens unit only, you will most likely need to buy the bulbs separately. Please be aware to buy the proper replacements for your application. The units pictured are made by Maxtel, these are glass lens replacements, but I did not see a DOT approved stamp on the units. The bulb is a H4 "blue" bulb, they give you that knock-off BMW headlight look. The blue tint supposedly gives you a "more like daylight" lighting condition due to the blue tint which is "easier on the eyes". I am still out on this verdict until I drive some more miles on them.

In comparison to the old units:

As you can see from the pictures, the biggest difference is in the removable cap on the back of the newer H4 light. This cap is removable so that you seat a H4 bulb in place.

 
Replacing the units: Follow the recommended replacement directions for your headlights in your vehicle owners manual.... 

In my case after removing the brush guards from my headlights- I first disconnected the old units. I then removed the four screws holding the bezel in place as shown below. Then installed the new units in reverse of disassembly.
The Difference?: Guess which is which?

The replacement H4's are on the left and my old headlight unit is on the right.
Pros and Cons:

Pros-

  • Seem brighter than other head lights.
  • Lines, Signs, and reflectors seem to jump out more.
  • Cool/Eerie bluish white light.
  • Plethora of H4 lighting options and wattage.
  • Bulb easily replaces- compared to removing whole unit to replace.
  • Unit seemed of high quality and is of glass.

 

Cons-
  • Police magnet
  • Seems to irritate some drivers
  • Not as bright as the BMW projector lights
  • These particular lens did not have a DOT approval stamp (there are some on the market)