brightest solution for replacement back-up light (7440 bulb)
12-05-2007, 06:22 PM
#161
Senior Member
SL Member
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 130
Hey D Unit,
Just so you know, it's midget hearse xb, not midget ears.
Wouldn't an HID get too hot to be seated into a plastic bumper? Obviously, for normal use it shouldn't, but some folks in here backup quite a ways... just a thought.
cc
Just so you know, it's midget hearse xb, not midget ears.
Wouldn't an HID get too hot to be seated into a plastic bumper? Obviously, for normal use it shouldn't, but some folks in here backup quite a ways... just a thought.
cc
12-05-2007, 06:39 PM
#162
Originally Posted by CIONIDE
It's 3am in Maryland, do you ever sleep?
It sucks that they have to be ordered from Japan; obviously no group buy until we know it's a good solution with better visibility over distance (we already know it's not about the "brightness" claims).
My guess would be for the Standard White (3,100K), since I've already seen that a blue tinted Xtreme White incandescent bulb with 28% (128% haha) more wattage than a regular incandescent bulb actually produced less visible light at distance.
Ask them if Catz is willing to put their money where their mouth is, and send you one sample bulb free of charge. If it's as good as they say it is, and you can post some pics to prove it is what they say it is, then I'll put up the front money for a quantity purchase and deal with drop shipping for members that want it.
First let's see what they say about a sample. If it gets that far, and the bulb looks good to you and I, we can then put up a posting to see what kind of purchase interest there would be. Even in a group buy, I don't expect the price to drop too significantly.
Please run it by Sigma, and see what they think.
Thanks for doing the leg/finger work on this.
It sucks that they have to be ordered from Japan; obviously no group buy until we know it's a good solution with better visibility over distance (we already know it's not about the "brightness" claims).
My guess would be for the Standard White (3,100K), since I've already seen that a blue tinted Xtreme White incandescent bulb with 28% (128% haha) more wattage than a regular incandescent bulb actually produced less visible light at distance.
Ask them if Catz is willing to put their money where their mouth is, and send you one sample bulb free of charge. If it's as good as they say it is, and you can post some pics to prove it is what they say it is, then I'll put up the front money for a quantity purchase and deal with drop shipping for members that want it.
First let's see what they say about a sample. If it gets that far, and the bulb looks good to you and I, we can then put up a posting to see what kind of purchase interest there would be. Even in a group buy, I don't expect the price to drop too significantly.
Please run it by Sigma, and see what they think.
Thanks for doing the leg/finger work on this.
I heard back from Daniel Stern today. No good news here:
I'm looking for a brighter 7440 bulb...
"No such bulb exists yet, I'm afraid."
DS
"No such bulb exists yet, I'm afraid."
DS
Hi Fred,
Firstly, you do know that this item comes in single-pk only. Thus 50
units = 25 pairs.
I can do $34 / unit if & only if you order 50 units. I will not grant
this price if your order is less than 50 units. And domestic freight
from Massachusetts is optional. But UPS Ground shouldn't be that much,
maybe another $25~35 or so w/ insurance...
Edward
SigmaAuto.com
Firstly, you do know that this item comes in single-pk only. Thus 50
units = 25 pairs.
I can do $34 / unit if & only if you order 50 units. I will not grant
this price if your order is less than 50 units. And domestic freight
from Massachusetts is optional. But UPS Ground shouldn't be that much,
maybe another $25~35 or so w/ insurance...
Edward
SigmaAuto.com
I haven't replied yet to ask for a free sample but I plan to do that soon. $34 isn't too bad if it works well but getting a sample, testing it and getting 50 orders together before 12/23 could be a PITA. My vacation will be over soon and I'll be back to the usual 60-70 hrs per week. I've never done a group buy before and I'll definitely need some help with this. (hint, hint)
12-05-2007, 06:57 PM
#163
Originally Posted by D_Unit
But anyways, if you guys are willing to dish out $50 on a bulb, why not just split on an HID kit? I used to be a member at HIDplanet.com and did a custom HID retrofit on my bimmer using a FX35 projector + a TSX lens in my headlights, so I can't imagine this being any harder. For a backup light, I am sure a cheap HID kit will do just fine with a relay and proper harness. Anyone know how difficult it would be to run some power wires to the backup light?
12-05-2007, 08:09 PM
#164
Senior Member
SL Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 615
Fred,
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
12-05-2007, 08:14 PM
#165
Senior Member
SL Member
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Bay Area, CA
Posts: 1,008
For the record, it's not Midget Hearse. Last night, we were both shooting the breeze at Claim Jumpers, and he told me it was Midget Ears.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
12-05-2007, 09:49 PM
#166
Originally Posted by D_Unit
For the record, it's not Midget Hearse. Last night, we were both shooting the breeze at Claim Jumpers, and he told me it was Midget Ears.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
Just an fyi...
12-05-2007, 09:54 PM
#167
Senior Member
SL Member
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Bay Area, CA
Posts: 1,008
Originally Posted by xseveredveganx
Originally Posted by D_Unit
For the record, it's not Midget Hearse. Last night, we were both shooting the breeze at Claim Jumpers, and he told me it was Midget Ears.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
And secondly, HID bulbs run cooler than a normal bulb. Granted the stock rear bulb is really small, it will definitely run cooler than an h1 or other regular fog light bulb. If you mount an HID bulb securely, I think it would be fine.
Just an fyi...
lol... man, I'm just messing with you. Midget Ears sounds a lot funnier to me, so I'll refer to him however I want.
12-05-2007, 10:11 PM
#169
Senior Member
SL Member
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Bay Area, CA
Posts: 1,008
Originally Posted by xseveredveganx
Okay, gotcha. 
have you been to any of the utahscions meet? If so, who the heck are you?!?!!
have you been to any of the utahscions meet? If so, who the heck are you?!?!!
To the original poster, sorry for hijacking this thread. I am not trying to advocate my store for promotion nor profit.
12-05-2007, 10:29 PM
#170
Originally Posted by rockthebeef
Fred,
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
You're right. If we miss the 12/23 deadline, it's no big deal. I've been backing up blind since July so I suppose I can wait another few months if necessary. We now have 3 standard bulb orders, only 47 more to go!
BTW, I emailed Sigma and asked them for a sample bulb. I hope they're willing. If not I may have to buy one but I'm hesitant to spend $50 on a light bulb.
12-05-2007, 11:24 PM
#172
Originally Posted by rockthebeef
Somebody has probably already said this but what I'd like to see is for Scion to do all the R&D and have a fix for the '09 models with a retrofit available for the '08s. 
12-05-2007, 11:50 PM
#173
Fred, I was assuming that we would be getting ONE sample bulb from them (if they'll even do it) with their next order, THEN put together the group buy if everything checks out. There's not a prayer in he11 that 50 xB owners will commit to this bulb, even at the lower price, without verification that it works like they claim. If Sigma has seen one lit up at night, and feels it is as good as advertised, then I would think they would be happy to front for the first bulb or talk Catz into fronting for it. Just curious; have you sent them this link so that they can see how serious we all are?
Thanks again for your efforts.
Thanks again for your efforts.
12-06-2007, 03:52 AM
#174
It looks like we won't be getting a free sample but Sigma has proposed a demonstration video instead. It's so frustrating that I can buy a 25W halogen bulb for $2 but if I want a T20 base the same bulb costs $50...
Hi Fred,
I believe my Prius uses these Catz T20 bulbs as backup. I am almost 90%
sure, I can double-check tomorrow. I can keep one halogen in there &
put in a 27W Raybrig T20 incadescent on the other side to show you. If
I can find the factory 21W T20, that'd be a better comparison cos'
Raybrig is already visually brighter than stock. But this is our
busiest season of the year and I can't guarantee when I can shoot this
video to show you. Besides, this is a 2-man job.
I haven't encountered one LED direct swap bulb that is bright enough for
illumination application like backup. They're more for DRL, signals
only. But time will change this.
Sorry, we don't give out samples. You can purchase 1 or 2 at full
retail but I'll refund you the price difference once you commit to the
50-pc order. I am quite sure that mixed models is ok.
Edward
SigmaAuto.com
I believe my Prius uses these Catz T20 bulbs as backup. I am almost 90%
sure, I can double-check tomorrow. I can keep one halogen in there &
put in a 27W Raybrig T20 incadescent on the other side to show you. If
I can find the factory 21W T20, that'd be a better comparison cos'
Raybrig is already visually brighter than stock. But this is our
busiest season of the year and I can't guarantee when I can shoot this
video to show you. Besides, this is a 2-man job.
I haven't encountered one LED direct swap bulb that is bright enough for
illumination application like backup. They're more for DRL, signals
only. But time will change this.
Sorry, we don't give out samples. You can purchase 1 or 2 at full
retail but I'll refund you the price difference once you commit to the
50-pc order. I am quite sure that mixed models is ok.
Edward
SigmaAuto.com
12-06-2007, 05:33 AM
#175
Let's give him the opportunity to show us; and Fred, I know he is already aware of this, but reinforce that we are talking about a $1700 order for 50 bulbs at $34/each. NOT CHUMP CHANGE, for people that will give him endless references if this is the shnizzle (to use a snoop dog term; trying not to swear in the forum).
AND I repeat: THANKS FOR ALL YOUR TIME & EFFORTS!!!!
Very much appreciated.
AND I repeat: THANKS FOR ALL YOUR TIME & EFFORTS!!!!
Very much appreciated.
12-06-2007, 06:32 AM
#176
I'm getting the strong feeling that you're much better at this sort of negotiation than I am. One of the things I really liked about buying a Scion was the no-haggle pricing. I'm too easy-going.
Anyway, excellent points as usual. I hadn't even thought about the total value of this potential group buy. I suppose we should wait for Sigma to convince us that their product is worth it and go from there.
Thanks to you and the SL community for all of your info, support and help. SL helped me to mod a tC CAI, make an underseat sub, turned me on to eD, wire my stereo and so much more. I'm just trying to give a little back.
Anyway, excellent points as usual. I hadn't even thought about the total value of this potential group buy. I suppose we should wait for Sigma to convince us that their product is worth it and go from there.
Thanks to you and the SL community for all of your info, support and help. SL helped me to mod a tC CAI, make an underseat sub, turned me on to eD, wire my stereo and so much more. I'm just trying to give a little back.
12-06-2007, 07:22 AM
#177
It's a give and take thing; we give, and they take (the suppliers). Seriously, thanks! If you'd like to pass the buck, I'll take it; just let Sigma know what's going on. Who have you been in contact with, I've only only been paying attn. to the name "Sigma", and you. If you'd like to pass them my way, it's bowmailbox-cionide@yahoo.com
Thanks for all your efforts and support Fred. Somebody make this guy a moderator, if he isn't already!
Thanks for all your efforts and support Fred. Somebody make this guy a moderator, if he isn't already!
12-06-2007, 04:22 PM
#178
Here is the response I received from Scion/Toyota:
(They ain't doin' squat.)
Recently you contacted Scion Customer Experience. Below is a summary of your contact message and our response.
Thank you for allowing us to be of service to you.
Subject: 2008 xB dangerously feeble back-up light
Response: (Kyle Oshiro) 12/06/2007 07:34 AM
Here at Scion, our mission is to satisfy a trend setting youthful buyer through distinctive products and an innovative, consumer-driven process. Therefore, we are always making an attempt to provide a distinct product of style and quality.
The all new 2008 xB has been redesigned with style and the consumer in mind. It does meet or exceed the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in all aspects, including the choice for one reverse light. The choice to use one reverse light instead of the A-typical two is for aesthetics and design. It is fully functional in its design, providing adequate lighting for reversing. We strongly recommend exercising caution whenever you are backing your vehicle out of a parking space, et cetera, as it may be difficult for you as the driver to see; as well as for other drivers to see you.
We make every effort to manufacture a quality product by researching, testing, and constantly monitoring performance. Consumer opinion and perception also play an active role in our ongoing efforts to lead the automobile industry in quality, innovation, styling, and reliability.
It is through communications such as yours that we become aware of the reactions and expectations of our customers; and we sincerely appreciate the time you have taken to provide your feedback.
If you have any further questions or comments you may contact us directly at 1-866-70-SCION or by email at Scion.com .
Kyle Oshiro
Scion Customer Experience
(They ain't doin' squat.)
Recently you contacted Scion Customer Experience. Below is a summary of your contact message and our response.
Thank you for allowing us to be of service to you.
Subject: 2008 xB dangerously feeble back-up light
Response: (Kyle Oshiro) 12/06/2007 07:34 AM
Here at Scion, our mission is to satisfy a trend setting youthful buyer through distinctive products and an innovative, consumer-driven process. Therefore, we are always making an attempt to provide a distinct product of style and quality.
The all new 2008 xB has been redesigned with style and the consumer in mind. It does meet or exceed the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in all aspects, including the choice for one reverse light. The choice to use one reverse light instead of the A-typical two is for aesthetics and design. It is fully functional in its design, providing adequate lighting for reversing. We strongly recommend exercising caution whenever you are backing your vehicle out of a parking space, et cetera, as it may be difficult for you as the driver to see; as well as for other drivers to see you.
We make every effort to manufacture a quality product by researching, testing, and constantly monitoring performance. Consumer opinion and perception also play an active role in our ongoing efforts to lead the automobile industry in quality, innovation, styling, and reliability.
It is through communications such as yours that we become aware of the reactions and expectations of our customers; and we sincerely appreciate the time you have taken to provide your feedback.
If you have any further questions or comments you may contact us directly at 1-866-70-SCION or by email at Scion.com .
Kyle Oshiro
Scion Customer Experience
12-06-2007, 05:18 PM
#180
Junior Member
Join Date: Oct 2007
Posts: 18
Originally Posted by rockthebeef
Fred,
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
Thanks for putting in all this effort while you're supposed to be vacationing. I know 50 orders sounds tough to get by 12/23. I suppose we could order after the 23rd and just wait longer if needed, right? You can count me in if we move forward with this.
I also vote for the 4200k over the blueish light.
Note - I think the 4200k bulb IS the bluish tinted one.