Custom molded headlight lens

[Paul1965]

I've been doing a lot of brainstorming on how to make an HID or better yet, a projector headlight work the best in our FJ's. Since the OE lens distorts the projectors light and scatters an HID's light, I think the solution is to make a custom, clear lens. So I did some research and ran across some DIY videos on YouTube about making your own vacuum forming table for molding objects out of plastic. I read a lot of car forums where users made their own car headlight lenses with great results. However, I don't feel like buying the materials to build my own table, so I jumped online and found a local company that does custom molding right here in Palatine IL. I sent him a pic of the headlight and in fact, just left there after physically showing him what I want. The initial estimate is probably around $40, and would be less if there's a larger number to be made. So my question is, who else is interested? I can probably supply a donor lens for the 84-85 FJ's, but I think the headlight is different for 86 and up so I'd need a donor lens from someone else. What do you guys think?

[FJmonkey]

The DDM HID works perfect with my OEM reflector on both my FJ and Toyota Tacoma. Since the DDM system uses the OEM plug to get signal for on/off and high beam, if the bulb or system fails, I can switch back to a standard bulb by pulling horn out to access the bulb. Almost tool-less to switch. Once I change the horn and put it there the charcoal canisters are then it will be 100% tool-less to swap back.

[The General]

The DDM HID works perfect with my OEM reflector on both my FJ and Toyota Tacoma. Since the DDM system uses the OEM plug to get signal for on/off and high beam, if the bulb or system fails, I can switch back to a standard bulb by pulling horn out to access the bulb. Almost tool-less to switch. Once I change the horn and put it there the charcoal canisters are then it will be 100% tool-less to swap back.

...But difficult to switch back at night when entering a twisty or two at speed.   Please research for absolute, g`teed best quality HID...and don`t ask why I don`t trust`m!...I copped flak for saying they were rubbish...I still think so! 
I think it was Alf that put a lot of work into this subject...then gave up.
I would ensure you have additional spot lights first ...the main priority. imho

[FJmonkey]

...But difficult to switch back at night when entering a twisty or two at speed.   Please research for absolute, g`teed best quality HID...and don`t ask why I don`t trust`m!...I copped flak for saying they were rubbish...I still think so! 
I think it was Alf that put a lot of work into this subject...then gave up.
I would ensure you have additional spot lights first ...the main priority. imho

I will look for reviews and rants on the DDM HIDs, my personal experience with DDM has been very good. I have heard bad reviews on other HID systems, perhaps others beg to differ. Thanks for the heads up.

[fj11.5]

Id be interested in a custom lens , and the headlights are the same up to 91 , I think that's where they went pair shaped

[Paul1965]

Id be interested in a custom lens , and the headlights are the same up to 91 , I think that's where they went pair shaped

Excellent, thanks for the info fj11.5

[simi_ed]

My experience with DDM has been mixed.  I had an inordinate amount of trouble with the DDM kit installed in my Dad's Camry.  I finally removed the kit prior to sale of the car, otherwise I'd be repairing it for the new owners as well. 

Another problem is they apparently don't stock anything in the US any longer.  It's all drop-shipped from the Chi-coms now.  No place an order, drop by to get it in will-call.  Warranty exchanges: 2-3 weeks.  They don't have 'great deals', but their prices are OK.  You can do just as well buying off flea-bay, IMHO. 

[Capn Ron]

Id be interested in a custom lens , and the headlights are the same up to 91 , I think that's where they went pair shaped

Excellent, thanks for the info fj11.5

That's up to (but not including) '91.  The '91-'93 use the same headlight assembly...and the '84-'89 use a different headlight assembly.

Cap'n Ron. . .

[fj11.5]

Thanks cap, was just a rough guess,


Rod

[Charlie-brm]

The DDM HID works perfect with my OEM reflector on both my FJ and Toyota Tacoma. Since the DDM system uses the OEM plug to get signal for on/off and high beam, if the bulb or system fails, I can switch back to a standard bulb by pulling horn out to access the bulb. Almost tool-less to switch. Once I change the horn and put it there the charcoal canisters are then it will be 100% tool-less to swap back.

Works perfect, doesn't break; or works perfect, projects a usable beam pattern through the original FJ lens? Because I really like seeing a noticeable cutoff pattern or I don't spend money on aftermarket headlights.
Thanks ya wee monkey

[Paul1965]

I really want to put a projector in mine instead of just an HID kit. I converted my Monte Carlo over to projector headlights and absolutely love them, I can't help but think it will be one of the best upgrades to do on my FJ too. This is the kit I have in mind: http://www.ebay.com/itm/151100356195?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

I don't care about angel and devil eyes. What I like is that it's bi-xenon, 55 watts and comes with the better AC ballast. And at 2.5 inches is should fill in the headlight housing quite nicely.

[fj11.5]

Awesome kit mate, , a few bikes have these as oem , they work great  , much better than hid kits in a standard headlight ,

[ribbert]

This may be of interest to those recently discussing headlight upgrades. This guy seems to have the problem covered.

This as an FJ1100 (Toyota MR2) for sale here at the moment.

[ribbert]

Although no one's asked. I know you want to see the rest of that "FJ1100"

Here's the link to the ad with all the photos:


http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-view-details.html?adId=1023367661

Noel

[fj11.5]

,Someone had plenty of money   , that's a lot of effort just to get decent headlights