Can't see with these really dull headlights!!!

[NJExplorerFan]

I have noticed that the headlights in my '97 Explorer are really bad. People who ride along with me at night have even asked if my headlights are on. They are just soooooo dull (almost like a bright fog light only).

I plan on seeing if the previous owner properly installed the bulbs properly. It appears when lined up against the wall, the right side beam of light points more downward. But, when you look ahead on the road from the driver's seat, they line up straight on road pretty evenly.

Anybody else have this same problem? Was the headlight technology really that bad in 1997 or maybe my bulbs are simultaneously about to die from years of being on there? I know they do dim through time, but not this bad.

 

[tknewlin]

Headlamps

Sylvania Silverstars work for me. Stock lamps were dim and the light was yellow. I've seen worse but I didn't like them at night. Tried some off ebay that had a bit of blue tint when shining on the white garage door. Not bad and the blue tint wasn't noticeable when looking at them. Still not as bright as I was looking for. Bought the SS's and am happy with them. Good white light as well. Best 40 bucks I've spent on the Ex yet. You can get them anywhere. Walmart, Target, all of the chain parts houses. They also have a Silverstar Ultra for around 50 bucks for the pair. Brighter but less expected lifetime if it matters. Also, if the lenses are oxidized very bad, this will contribute to a no light situation. You can buy plastic polish just for this at auto parts houses. Best used with a electric polisher as a wrag and your arm just won't move fast enough.
Correct lamp is 9007ST for the silverstars. 9007SUBP for the Ultras.
Good Luck

 

[Maniak]

If the lens is scratched or faded or cloudy, try using ones of the plastic polishers. I normally use McGuieres (sp?) plastx. Works wonders on cloudy headlights. I've used it on the explorer, honda and the old neon.

edit: This is what the bottle looks like

~Mark

 

[BBQ Bandit]

If the lens is scratched or faded or cloudy, try using ones of the plastic polishers. I normally use McGuieres (sp?) plastx. Works wonders on cloudy headlights. I've used it on the explorer, honda and the old neon.

edit: This is what the bottle looks like

~Mark

Used the same stuff... improved illumination.
Was ok until I got a transplant and new Silverstars from Blackjack!!!

 

[toypaseo]

^^^ That is what I use on my headlights, with some coats of wax afterwards. The clearcoat is in the early stages of falling off.

Brand new OEM headlights and Philips X-Treme Power bulbs are in my garage awaiting installation.