Headlight question

[e.z.nightrider]

Any body know the difference between a 55/60w h4 bulb and a 9003 55/60w bulb.

[RiskyBusiness]

Someone please correct me if I am wrong, but I think that 9003 is the DOT designation for an H4. I think H4 is a standard that defines the shape and size of the bulb. The 9003 means that DOT says that the bulb with that label is OK to use in the US for motor vehicles. So if a company made a construction or off road bulb in the H4 form it might not have the 9003 designation because it is too bright or wrong color, or something that renders it out of compliance for road vehicles from the point of view of the Dept. of Transportation. Sylvania tends to put both the 9003 and the H4 designation on their bulbs.

One thing I am not 100% sure on is if the 9003 DOT label means that the bulb is OK for motor vehicles or autos. Can bikes run an H4 that is not 9003?

[Dragonrider]

H4 and 9003 are the same bulb. H4 was the first maker's designation (Sylvania I think) and they became 9003 when other makers started producing them.

Some headlight info....

[e.z.nightrider]

Thanks, I'm going to change to silverstar but could only find a 9003 and the dealer was no help.

[skids]

Item "9003ST" Silverstar works real good.

Originally posted by e.z.nightrider
Thanks, I'm going to change to silverstar but could only find a 9003 and the dealer was no help.

[motoman]

Just use your local parts store, Napa, Auto Zone, etc., to purchase the bulb you need as it is a darn site cheaper than the bike shops. I'm using one from Napa, an 80/85 watt, "off road", not D.O.T. approved. Don't run at nite much, but when I've gotten caught late, it works well also. It's on a 81H Venturer 1100, and hasn't caused any adnormal current draws on system, plus catches eye of "4-wheel" drivers during the day!

[xj11john]

Wal-Mart has them also.