[toastersauce]

Hey everyone,

Just wanted to be a PITA newbie again and ask a question about HID projectors. I have been doing a lot of research out there about HID lighting, and really want to upgrade in the near future. To do a retrofit, do I HAVE to get the Bosch E46 projector, or can I get any projector?

Does everyone use the E46 projector because it most closely fits in the Mazda 6 light housing?

 

[zoomzoomfan]

Honestly, there aren't that many people around who've retrofitted. I think we number about 10 or so on this forum.

But to answer your question:

Yes, the E46 is a direct replacement for the stock halogen projector.

But, No, you don't HAVE to get the E46. If you can get another projector to fit, then by all means go for it. Keep in mind, however, that there's absolutely zero work involved in doing an E46 retrofit... ok, I exagerrate, but in comparison to what other people (on HIDPlanet.com) have to go through to get OEM HID installed on their cars, the work is minimal. For any other projector-type, you'd most probably have to do some hacking, some fabricating... some JBWelding... etc. With the E46 there's none of that. Remove the old projector and put in the new projector. Everything lines up perfectly. Also, were are now starting to become aware of the fact that the 06 Mazda6 that comes with HIDs stock actually use a very similar projector to the E46.

Here's a list of projectors that I know of, that have been attempted on Mazda6 headlights:

• Justin6s has E55 projectors.
• robinlb has redone his retrofit several times using different projectors and I believe he finally settled on FX projectors.
• The remaining members who've retofitted have used E46... myself included.

HTH

 

[doublebass120]

Hey everyone,

Just wanted to be a PITA newbie again and ask a question about HID projectors. I have been doing a lot of research out there about HID lighting, and really want to upgrade in the near future. To do a retrofit, do I HAVE to get the Bosch E46 projector, or can I get any projector?

Does everyone use the E46 projector because it most closely fits in the Mazda 6 light housing? [/b]

When I installed my HID's, I left my headlights alone. They look, and perform, great. I've never been flashed by other drivers, only complimented. Cops don't even look twice.

I never really understood the need for retrofitting a new projector in there, but to each his/her own.

 

[zoomzoomfan]

That's not answering the OP's question. I believe he's made a wise choice in chosing to do a retrofit.

The reasons for doing a retrofit are as follows:

1. One wishes to use OEM components that are proven to be reliable and that perform at a level unmatched by a kit
2. One wishes to achieve an OEM look

Don't get me wrong... if you're satified with a kit, then great. No need to change.

If you're like the many people who've had a kit and now wish to go further, then do a retrofit.

 

[bumpin_blazer]

just curious, can you explain what actually benefits from a retro fit? i know people have taken pics but what really changes? i put my 6000k hid's in last week and am in love i can't imagine anything better....well maybe hid fogs lol.

 

[Lebult]

^^ +1

I've been looking around, but havn't found a pro/con list.
What's the difference between 'retrofitting' some Bosch's and using one of the HID kits like Apexcone

 

[doublebass120]

^^ +1

I've been looking around, but havn't found a pro/con list.
What's the difference between 'retrofitting' some Bosch's and using one of the HID kits like Apexcone[/b]

Issues with safety for other drivers. When you simply swap the halogens with an HID kit, you run the risk of massive glare affecting other drivers. Retrofitted projectors eliminate that glare.

As for the performance of a retrofitted kit vs. non-retro, I've no idea. I didn't retrofit, and I have no glare issues :yesnod: .
The only thing is that one bulb is pointed slightly higher than the other, making it seem like one bulb is dimmer. Pisses me off..