3.2 Headlight bulbs

A substantial improvement can be made by eliminating the 5+ volt drop in the headlight wiring. Measure the voltage at the lamps and see if yours is the same as in other cars. Some of that drop is in the switch and some in the relays and the rest in the length of small gauge wires used.

By using relays on the lights, and fused heavy wiring direct to the battery instead of through so much of the car, the 5 volt drop is reduced to under 1 volt. In addition the switch life is extended since it must only activate the relays with current in the milliamp range rather than tens of amps. Many of us have made the upgrade and some kits are available but diy from components is quite easy.

If you are familiar with light dimmers used in the home, lamps at 70% voltage produce a comfortable yellow light and last much longer. The headlights when subjected to 95% voltage produce a bright white light and are plenty adequate for nightime driving. Stock vintage Ferraris are operating between 70% and 80% capacity.

If you don't believe me, try this experiment, wire one headlight directly to the battery and drive around the block at night. You will find no need for increased wattage lamps which put further strain on the stalk switch with their increased current demands.

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