Possible problem with bulbs.

[Marty Hill]

Hello all,

Some months ago I saw a post on Phillips bulbs being brighter. I ordered 2 for my 1200GS from a firm in the UK. My dip beam had burned out at 9.5k miles so I replaced both with the new brighter bulbs. Last night at 16k miles my dip beam left me. I assumed the bulb had burned out but that was not the case. The block of plastic or what ever the substance is where the bulb plugs in had melted.

I have no idea if it is my dip beam or the new bulbs but I thought I'd mention it. Will have the dealer take a look next week.

Cheers,

 

[Dutchman]

Hi Marty

The Phillips brighter bulbs burn somewhat hotter than the OE ones & perhaps that's the cause of the melted plastic connector..............?

I've not replaced the bulbs in my 1200GS for that very reason.......and I doubt if the BMW dealer will be very sympathetic if the damage has been caused by non-standard bulbs........perhaps the bulb supplier will have a remedy....?

Cheers

Dutch

 

[Marty Hill]

Hi and thanks Dutch,

That is my guess as to what happened. Others have used the brighter bulbs, perhaps I got to the melting first due to miles travelled.

Cheers,

 

[Mouse]

Were they actually higher wattage bulbs, or merely "extra bright" ones?

Assuming the lamp unit is rated for a 55W bulb, I would expect to be able to use ANY 55W bulb in there.

 

[Marty Hill]

Mouse,

I can't find the paperwork but I believe they were osram silver star bulbs. Brighter but not sure of the power. Wish my memory was better...senior moment/or year!

Cheers.