Re: THOR to HID adapter ring
THOR 35W Auto HID mod = 33% more light @ 2.5 X run time (~2:15). Also sharper focus IMO.
Stock THOR = ~2400 lumens/100W (bulb rated 2900L @ 13.2 volts, THOR @ 12 volts). 35W D1S or D2S = 3200 lumens / ~40W (note ballast efficiency)
More detail in thread:
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB4&Number=845281&page=2&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=&fpart=all)
ANY automotive 35 watt system will work. With patience it's easy to Fleabay bulb and ballast for <$150. A complete PAIR went recently for $185+shipping so it might be easier to snag a pair then B/S/T the spare. Or do two /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif. Or check local salvage yards.
Caveats:
1) Try to get a DxS (D1S or D2S), not a DxR. the "R" type have ceramic paint to reduce glare but this also reduces output. It's not a big deal to scrape this paint off but you have to be very careful not to damage the capsule.
2) Watch the size of the ballast - not all will fit inside the THOR. D1X (D1S/D1R) type systems have an igniter as part of the bulb making for a smaller ballast. Both the Philips and Osram D1X type ballasts I tried fit. Many D2x Type systems (Kenrad, Matsushita) should also work as the igniter is separate from the ballast breaking the electronics into two packages. One notable exception is the Hella Gen4 system which integrates the ignitor in the bulb socket. You end up with what looks like a big D1X type bulb which is a real challenge. (the non-Gen4 Hella has a small socket.) I have also confirmed that the The Koito/Denso D2X type ballasts used by most Toyota / Lexus will not fit inside.
I highly recommend this ring if you'e going to put a HID in your THOR - the only other alternatives are 1) Casper's electronics $25 adapter, which you still have to chop up and shim with O-Rings 2) Lots and lots of RTV or putty.
What's in my THOR? An Osram D1S system. Had to snip away some of the plastic on the bracket behind the reflector and re-route the battery wires to the side, but it wedges in perfectly. From the outside the only tip off is the different looking bulb and the "High Voltage" ISO label I stuck on top.
Theepdinker - I'm trying to come up with a nickname for my THOR also, so here are my potential names (and guesses for your THOR's name as well)
1) "Tiny"
2) "Peewee"
3) "Sunburn"
4) "Bubba"
or, in light of the recent news, "Jocko"
