I've done a search on this but couldn't get the info I needed.

I want to upgrade my '09 Road King's 35-watt passing lamp H3 bulbs to 55-watts bulbs. I have a set of 55-watt H3s, but when I went to fit them I found that H-D's stock H3 bulb has a plastic base that plugs into the bike's wiring harness, making it impossible to swap in a standard H3 bulb. Anyone figure out a way to get around this, or does H-D make 55-watt replacement bulbs that plug in? Did a search on that as well and couldn't find any.

Any info is appreciated.

 

Not sure but I think they changed them to 881's a few years ago. Better check again.

 

Thanks for that tip. Indeed they are 881s. Never heard of them before.

Guess I should rephrase my question: Does anyone know if H-D sells 55-watt 881 bulbs?

 

The stock lamps are GE 881L or NAPA BP881.

Search the web for 881 lamps. Tons of different kinds out there.

http://store.classicgarage.com/wl-ion88150.html

http://store.classicgarage.com/wl-ygh88150.html

If you want a brighter lamp with only a 50w draw, install a GE H7604. You have to do a little wiring mod, but it's no big deal. It's a sealed halogen. They have the standard screw terminals.

 

Problem is I'm in Japan. Was hoping I could add them to a Zanotti order to save shipping if H-D sells them but will look locally.

 

I fitted Harley sealed halogens, as my easy way of improving those lamps. Harley do several different styles of replacements. I seem to remember my new ones had flat spade push-on connectors, not screw type, but it was easy to adapt them.

 

Checked locally, seems like 881s are not sold here. Hate to waste my perfectly good stock passing lamps so will continue to look for a bulb upgrade.

 

I've been wanting to do this on my 09 as well. I'm not having any luck finding the 881s either. Has anyone used the 55w 881's and have any feedback on them, good or bad?

 

Since you are in Japan just upgrade to a pair of HID 35 watt lights. Unbelievable to say the least. I have a PDF of night shots showing the difference. Like going from a kerosene lamp to daylight. Send me your e-Mail address and I will send you a PDF showing the difference between the two. You can pick them up locally if you like and they would just pop right in once you drilled a hole for the cables. Use my e-Mail address if you wish the PDF & I will reply. If you do not wish to go that route remember to install a different circuit using a relay and at least a 16 GA. dedicated power wire with fuse onto the battery and ground the passing lamps very will as you do need a return circuit (current flows from ground to the + side of the battery).

 

Thanks for the suggestion, Howard. I've had a look at your site, and may do an HID upgrade in the future when I've got the bucks.