opinions on Bosch H4's for SC

Markus30 · 01:30 PM

Hello,
I am planning an upgrade to H4's (from Pelican Parts) for my 911 SC. I'm considering the various trim ring options: chrome, black, or paintable cover ring. My '80 SC Targa is silver with black window frames, door handles, etc.

I know silver painted cover rings would be more 'appropriate' for the year but, I'm still considering the chrome or black. Can I just switch to the primered cover rings should I change my mind later? I've seen the chrome rings on black trimmed cars (74 RSR and 75 turbo) and these looked great, of course.

I know it's really up to me but would value any feedback and/or pics.

Also, if I go with the 55/60w bulb combo, do I need to upgrade wiring w/ relay as mentioned in prior posts?

Regards,
Markus

steve911 · steve911's Garage

Markus-
Can't comment on the trim rings, though I'm sure you'll get plenty of opinions from others on that question.

Relays - there have many threads on this and the overriding advice is to install a relay, no matter what size bulbs you are using.

check out this thread:
High Beam Switch

there is a link to a relay kit - best $20 I've spent on my Pcar in a long time and an VERY easy, well documented installation

ErVikingo · 07-22-2002, 02:23 PM

The paintable trim rings can be installed later is you don't like the chrome look. That's what I have on my SC and the rings actually just fit over the chrome ones no problem.

As to the colors, it's a matter of opinion, personally I'd match the paint.

I don't have a relay yet but will install them now since I'm upgrading to super white bulbs.

Juan

surflvr911sc · surflvr911sc's Garage

I upgraded my headlights but I went with the stock SC look. I kept my old rings and original look but have the benifit of H4 power. I'm kinda a purist so this worked better for me because the output of the stock lights suck. I bought the kit right here at pelican.

Botman · Botman's Garage

Here's the chrome H4 rings on my 86 Carrera...
I chose them over the black trim rings because I think they match my Fuchs. I have not upgraded my relay, but probably should for peace of mind.

IMO: Get the chrome, add paintable trim rings later if you don't like it or want to change the look.

Post some pics too.

82SuperC · 82SuperC's Garage

My vote is to color match the trim rings.

Superman · 07-22-2002, 04:12 PM

Color match the trim rings. 55/60 is stock, I believe. I'm using 55/100s, but I am also using the El Cheapo direct-replacement H4s (Hella, though Bosch also makes them).

thabaer · thabaer's Garage

Definitely go body color, but as mentioned above, when I take off the body color rings mine are suddenly chrome!

So if you REALLY have to change your mind, you can go chrome.

diy83sc · 07-22-2002, 07:03 PM

I have black trim on a quarts 83 and installed H4 lights. When I received the lights, I left one of the original trim rings at the paint shop to color match and went home to install the new lights. The black trim ring seems to go quite well with the rest of the black trim. I also have black interior, front and rear spoilers as well, which probably help balance it all out. The black rings appear to have an identical sheen to the rest of the trim as well. As for cost, the rings are expensive ~ $80 and the paintwork, will cost about the same.

To get a good idea, post a picture of your car... and with some luck, a photo shop wizard will appear!

Markus30 · 07-23-2002, 07:59 AM

Thanks for the replies so far. Turns out my mechanic has an extra set of the paintable cover rings from when he bought H4's for his personal '74. So I guess I will have the color match option.

In the mean time I'll be trying the 'contrasting look' but still deciding between chrome and black. Botman, I think the chrome rings look great on your black Carrera!

diy83sc... "the black trim ring seems to go quite well with the rest of the black trim. I also have black interior, front and rear spoilers as well, which probably help balance it all out. The black rings appear to have an identical sheen to the rest of the trim as well."... I'm thinking along these lines as well!

Thanks again,
Markus

NapTownSpeedy · 07-23-2002, 08:08 AM

My '81 SC RoW came with chrome in the same color combination as yours. They look the best in Chrome (IMHO)

Markus30 · 07-23-2002, 08:28 AM

Ryan,
Thanks for posting that image again. Btw, I just went back and viewed those pics you posted earlier of your 'new' car and I think it looks great, pure! My car is a targa with fogs so it has a little more 'black' in it compared to yours. Still, have to say I'm leaning towards the chrome after seeing these pics.

Regards,
Markus

Bill Verburg · Bill Verburg's Garage

Here's a pic of silver w silver painted

here's a pic wo the painted rims, I don't like it;

here's a pic of a chrome and the silver painted rim

MO? the painted silver looks best. Do use the relays even for stock headlights.

Jeffra · 07-23-2002, 03:56 PM

I've owned two 911's and've upgraded both to H-4 w/55-100 watt bulbs and no relay. Work fine, never had a problem. Love'em.

As for trim rings...my 911S had chrome window trim, door handles, etc and the chrome h-4 trim rings really complemented the look.

However, on my 911SC, I went with the black trim rings. After a few months of weathering they are looking faded, so I'd definatley go with the primered rings and paint to body color. You'll end up doing it anyway.