Changing A Headlight Bulb

[Badbob]

Few notes on changing a headlight bulb.

The tool kit screw driver is junk. Fit only for turning the spark plug socket. Just about anything you replace it with will will likely be to long to do the job comfortably. Put an offset #2 Phillips screwdriver in you kit for the screws or a stubby if you prefer. I have had mine out quite a few times and I have one just for getting these screws out. The cheap ratcheting offset screw driver from HF will do fine for this.

There are spacers on these little screws be careful not to loose them. I try really hard to only disassemble things on pavement so I at least have a chance of finding something if I drop it.

Carefully observe how the wiring is stuffed into the headlight bell. If you don't do this you may be there awhile trying to get it stuffed back in. If I ever get a chance to open one that hasn't been opened from the factory I'm going to get some photos. I'd love to know if there is more than one way to get all those wires back in there.

Be sure all the connectors are latched good before you close it up. The ignition circuit goes through here as well as lighting. A loose connector can cause you grief.

Be careful not to pinch any wires.

Don't touch the bulb with your fingers if you want it to last very long.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Badbob

Don't touch the bulb with your fingers if you want it to last very long.

Is that a Halogen bulb in there? I thought it was a plain 'ole filament.

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

Is that a Halogen bulb in there? I thought it was a plain 'ole filament.

You betcha.

[trykemike]

Hey Easy the bulb is " H4 " yes it's halogen. Brighter than the 350 honda I had 40 years ago.

[Water Warrior 2]

A SilverStar bulb is quite a bit brighter than the OEM bulb but has a shorter life span due to vibrations of the GZ. The SS do work well in my Vstrom and never need replacing. Piaa has a motorcycle bulb built for vibration and has a one year warrantry but they are big $$.
And as for getting the screws out to replace the bulb, the factory tool is the worst possible length. A stubby screw driver would be nice to use.