Sure, the Hella units were used for a long time (even on bugs). Great lights for what they are. However, things have also moved on considerably since then. You only have to look at any modern car to see that. Its reasonable to be sceptical which is why I did so much testing before committing myself to upgrading, both on the bench and on the vehicle. The modern ones are definately better. I did consider videoing the tests but felt it was a bit too anorak for most, plus it would have got in the way of what I was doing.
I was unable to get a sharp enough image with Hellas although the pattern 'looked' acceptable. The cut-off points (ie from light to dark) was and is pin-sharp on both the angel eye and DRL units. All I can do is pass on what I found after four sets of lights and checks against the prescribed pattern for dipped headlights which are very precise. I must have gone through a whole packet of chalk. There is no compulsion on anyone to accept the above, nor any compulsion on my part to pass on my findings to anyone else - but I have, freely.
The e-marked ones definately conform to UK/EU regs and are widely used by land rover owners. CJH will no doubt agree on the improvement over Hellas, and as I mentioned, I'm only using stock bulbs.
Chris's point about e-marked and MOT tests is also correct. Providing a non e-marked unit passes the headlight aim test, they will accept it. I have in the past had headlights adjusted by garages only to find them way too high and subsequently had to bring them back down. Bit annoying when you've paid for it. Those with any concerns can choose only e-marked. There are several to choose from. Yes, mine came from same supplier as CJH and they were incredibly helpful, even going to the trouble of having adapters made for me to try. I settled on my own solution but was grateful for the lengths they went to.
Finally, for the bezel (and Chris has experienced this) the three screw holes need to be equally spaced (ie equilateral triangle). These are commonly fitted in the US where lucas-style fitments are more common than europe fittings. If you remove a T25 headlamp, you can see the three lucas indents, even though they are unused over here. Clearly they were designed for two markets. I discovered that three cable ties would do the job very well - all covered extensively in other thread.
Their full range can be found here:
http://www.powerfuluk.com/itemlist.html ... +headlight" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; - some with or without sidelight fittings, depending on what you intend to do. Most are under £30 a pair.
will be refurbing the heater box over the winter, would be a good time to do it.
