Lots of projector questions. - SRT Forums

Wheat_Burner · 12-25-2005, 09:46 AM

I've decided to start putting the parts together for a projector retro. I'm going to eventually go with the TSX w/ Hak color mod.

I have read quite a bit, but not all of the info on here so please take it easy if these have been answered already:

- If I used the chrome DEPO housings, could I just use a chrome bezel to make the install look cleaner? If so, which one?
- Do I need to use a shroud with a reflector housing?
- If I get TSX projectors, do I also need to use TSX ballasts? (I have a friend at an Audi dealer that might be able to help with some parts.)
- Most of the projectors I see for sale are held together with zip ties. Is that common?
- Do "matching numbers" on projectors make a difference?
- Are there any specific things (other than scratched lenses) to look out for when buying used projectors?

Thanks for any help. I have a feeling more questions will come up.

Greg_04-SRT4 · 12-25-2005, 09:42 PM

I have a question too.

In retgards to the sheets of ABS. What thickness should be used and is there a recommended place to get them?

**haknslash** · 12-26-2005, 11:01 AM

- If I used the chrome DEPO housings, could I just use a chrome bezel to make the install look cleaner? If so, which one?

E46 "Xenon" shrouds fit the TSX nicely.

- Do I need to use a shroud with a reflector housing?

Yes and no. Depending on how you mount the projector, you will need a shroud. If you mount it from the front that is the method I prefer and suggest when using the stock reflector as a base. If you do, you will have exposed bolts and the entire projector body so you would need to use a shroud. Depending on width and size of the projector determins if you can use the stock reflector. If you mount the projector from the back and basically use the stock reflector as a "shroud" then you will need mnore than likely need to incorporate your own adjusters and also hack up the rear of your housing.

- If I get TSX projectors, do I also need to use TSX ballasts? (I have a friend at an Audi dealer that might be able to help with some parts.)

You just need a OEM ballast. It doesn't have to match at all.

- Most of the projectors I see for sale are held together with zip ties. Is that common?

Yes this is absolutely normal on TSX's that are out of their respective housing for shipping. The TSX is held together on its bracket inside the TSX headlamp by those four areas where your seeing the zip ties. Once you begin to use the TSX's, you will of course not use the zip ties and you will replace them with bolts obviously. So think of the zip ties as a safety for shipment

- Do "matching numbers" on projectors make a difference?

Sometimes yes and sometimes no

. Sorry answer I know but its the truth. I have seen some cases where two projectors had matching numbers but different results. A rule of thumb we go by on hidplanet is no two projectors are ever alike and thats the truth.

- Are there any specific things (other than scratched lenses) to look out for when buying used projectors?

Reflector bowl clarity and quality plays a big role in performance. Not a bad idea to ask for pics of the reflector body and shield to ensure everything looks a-ok.

hozay09 · 12-26-2005, 11:06 AM

Maybe your looking for something like this Tom? This is what I would want. Don't remember if Hak said it was worthwhile or not.

Greg_04-SRT4 · 12-26-2005, 11:07 AM

Hey Hak

What about the thickness of the ABS

Is the 1/8" thickness okay?

Also, what is the status of the how to, is that going to be updated/finished soon?

hozay09 · 12-26-2005, 11:09 AM

Another shot..

Wheat_Burner · 12-26-2005, 03:25 PM

MUCH appreciated, Hak.

Hozay - PM sent.

**haknslash** · 12-26-2005, 03:30 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Greg_04-SRT4

Hey Hak

What about the thickness of the ABS

Is the 1/8" thickness okay?

Also, what is the status of the how to, is that going to be updated/finished soon?

Sorry, didn't see your post earlier heh. 1/8" is what I use.

As hozays picture shows. That guy has mounted them from the front (like I prefer) and is using what appears to be PVC pipe coupler in addition to a chrome bezel. This can be done, but remember, its all on the projector size that determines if you can do something like that.

I also would like to announce that I have just now completed another first. I was abler to modify the stock mounts and was able to use a TL along with the stock adjuster!! So happy! /Rant

wannasupra · 12-26-2005, 05:26 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by haknslash

I also would like to announce that I have just now completed another first. I was abler to modify the stock mounts and was able to use a TL along with the stock adjuster!! So happy! /Rant

and that means what?

Remax Realtor · 12-26-2005, 07:17 PM

it means he can adjust the beam of his retros with the stock beam adjuster. hak will all of your retros utilize this?

wannasupra · 12-26-2005, 07:23 PM

oh, duh. ok i get what he means now. that's tight. so he won't have to bake the housing and take it apart to adjust how high the beam hits. that's really cool.

**haknslash** · 12-26-2005, 07:35 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Remax Realtor

hak will all of your retros utilize this?

Not sure if all will. I'm sure I could get it to that though with enough time.

Quote: Originally Posted by wannasupra

so he won't have to bake the housing and take it apart to adjust how high the beam hits. that's really cool.

I never had it to where people would have to bake the housings to adjust the beam. That would be stupid to do LOL. My retyros have always been/always will be adjustable. Its just that prior to now, I used to use 4 bolts to adjust the beam. This time I made some modifications which allows me to use the stock bottom adjuster arm on the housing to move the beam. Before it would require you to remove the driverside headlight to adjust it. Now with this one, he still uses it like stock.

Greg_04-SRT4 · 12-26-2005, 07:53 PM

Thanks Hak

msrt4 · 08-08-2006, 06:27 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Greg_04-SRT4

Hey Hak

What about the thickness of the ABS

Is the 1/8" thickness okay?

Also, what is the status of the how to, is that going to be updated/finished soon?

hey everyone where can i buy some of that abs

**haknslash** · 08-08-2006, 06:31 PM

ABS can be bought online, from a local car stereo shop, etc.

I wouldn't get less than 1/8". Its usualkly sold in 12x12 sheets.