The ZKW Burnt Bowls Thread

[sna77]

You should print out the TIS instructions for removing the headlight and bring them with you... I'd start with "since you've already lied to me..."

[ryankokesh]

Yeah, I'm just never going to Patrick again. If you treat people like shit, you're gonna have a bad time...

They're super close to me, but I'll go way out of my way to go anywhere else now.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Johnmadd]

http://i1210.photobucket.com/albums/cc407/johnmadd1979/20120804_164243.jpg
http://i1210.photobucket.com/albums/cc407/johnmadd1979/20120804_164317.jpg

I'm gonna be rid of this tomorrow!

[cakM3]

Yep, they are gone.....

[Hornung418]

Hope it works well for ya Johnnyboy. Props to Jon for going through the research to retrofit the D1S bowls. Hope the retaining clip keeps everything snug.

Horney...via TT.

[Johnmadd]

Hope it works well for ya Johnnyboy. Props to Jon for going through the research to retrofit the D1S bowls. Hope the retaining clip keeps everything snug.

Horney...via TT.

I made even more mods to retain the bulb, its definitely secure now.

[derbo]

anyone have zkw bowls laying around they dont need? I like to get the ZKW lenses...

[danewilson77]

anyone have zkw bowls laying around they dont need? I like to get the ZKW lenses...

What would you do with burnt zkw bowls?

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[derbo]

i like to get the lenses off the burnt projector. It will be in a picture log when I get them :)

[danewilson77]

i like to get the lenses off the burnt projector. It will be in a picture log when I get them :)

Gotcha

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[jjcools]

Resurrection

I am actually trying to sell the Zhp and what happens, light goes out. Complete fail! I knew it had a ZKW and an AL light and the ZKW light was a little faded but not also burned out. So, two options I found because I am a little nervous of attempting the DIY and need to get this fixed so I can sell it. Do I send it over to NY or have a CA person do the FXR retrofit to the car? The local guy said they use the DEPOTs and retrofit the FXR in.

DOes that seem stupid to anyone else?

[nike001]

Replace the ballast or the igniter and just fix it.

Fx-r retros are way too expensive. The depo idea isn't even a good one. If I were to do it I'd use BMW headlights

[jjcools]

I found a guy on ebay that sells OEM headlight assemblies for $400 used. I might go this route so the next owner does not just get the car with the burned bowl.

The Depo idea is what is confusing to me. Umnitza thinks that for $500 he can fit FX-Rs into depo headlights???? I am not sure about that and sending my headlights to NY (Lightwerx) seems like a lot of downtime.

[Crickett]

I found a guy on ebay that sells OEM headlight assemblies for $400 used. I might go this route so the next owner does not just get the car with the burned bowl.

The Depo idea is what is confusing to me. Umnitza thinks that for $500 he can fit FX-Rs into depo headlights???? I am not sure about that and sending my headlights to NY (Lightwerx) seems like a lot of downtime.

I was in the same boat as you: one AL & one ZKW headlight. My ZKW was quite dim & getting worse so I bought a used AL on eBay for a few hundred. ZKW-to-AL is 99% a direct swap, you just have to remove a bit of the ZKW lower plastic mounting bracket (very easy to do w/a Dremel or similar). Not the cheapest solution, but there's no fiddling with modifying projector housings or retrofitting this part or that, just a straight-up quality OE BMW replacement. :thumbup

[llll1l1ll]

Is it a 99% direct swap regardless if you have a coupe/sedan?

[Vas]

I would love to do an fx-r retro. My zkw lights are starting to fade.

[cakM3]

Is it a 99% direct swap regardless if you have a coupe/sedan?

Coupes do not have this issue....only sedans with ZKW headlight assemblies...

[az3579]

Replace the ballast or the igniter and just fix it.

Fx-r retros are way too expensive. The depo idea isn't even a good one. If I were to do it I'd use BMW headlights

I disagree. An FX-R swap will cost you between 400-700 from the reports I've seen. ONE new headlight assembly from BMW is over 1k, for only one side.
The FX-R swap includes parts and labor. $700 for superior lights is a complete bargain if you ask me.

^^ This is using your original headlight housings. They modify it to make the FX-R's fit.

[danewilson77]

You can do one headlight for around $750 (Magnetti Marelli)

FX-R is def cheaper. More labor intensive though.

[cakM3]

I disagree. An FX-R swap will cost you between 400-700 from the reports I've seen. ONE new headlight assembly from BMW is over 1k, for only one side.
The FX-R swap includes parts and labor. $700 for superior lights is a complete bargain if you ask me.

^^ This is using your original headlight housings. They modify it to make the FX-R's fit.

So when are you going to do this BP? :foottap

[nike001]

I disagree. An FX-R swap will cost you between 400-700 from the reports I've seen. ONE new headlight assembly from BMW is over 1k, for only one side.
The FX-R swap includes parts and labor. $700 for superior lights is a complete bargain if you ask me.

^^ This is using your original headlight housings. They modify it to make the FX-R's fit.

He's selling the car. I'd rather spend ~$120 to get rid of the temporary problem. He said the light on the ZKW side went out. Not is too burned.

$700 IS a lot of money. Especially for headlights. I paid $350 for both AL lights and they're working just fine.

[danewilson77]

^That's a great "not every day" deal.

[az3579]

^That's a great "not every day" deal.

This. Most of the time I believe those headlights still sell for around that price EACH. For a tiny bit more money, the FX-R provides much more superior lighting.

I find great value in that, but if you're happy with your AL's then great. I'm still going to upgrade my AL's to FX-R, not because of the light output, but because my highbeam shutter solenoids are shot. The better light output will just be a plusssss. :)


And by the way, $700 is the highest price I've seen. I have a Club member friend who just did a Lightwerkz retrofit and he paid only $450.


Sent from my iPhone 4S from Tapatalk

[Hornung418]

If anyone needs headlights, you need to hit up Jack.chris328i on e46f. He can help you with your lighting issues the same way he helped me.

[JupiterBMW]

If anyone needs headlights, you need to hit up Jack.chris328i on e46f. He can help you with your lighting issues the same way he helped me.

Yep, he helped me with some parts as well. Good guy...

[llll1l1ll]

Do you mean he helped you find a good deal on some ALs?

[Hornung418]

I mean that he sold me a set of PnP AL Bi-xenons for $500 shipped to my door.

[llll1l1ll]

Nice. That is definitely something to consider.

[6appeal]

Guys I can't find this member on Fanatics.

[nike001]

Guys I can't find this member on Fanatics.

I can vouch for him as well. Great guy.

His E46F profile:
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/member.php?u=174880

EDIT: I feel like we/someone should extend him an invite to join the fam..?

[danewilson77]

Go ahead Dalton. If he does want to join....I would need potential USERNAME and EMAIL addy....

[nike001]

Go ahead Dalton. If he does want to join....I would need potential USERNAME and EMAIL addy....

He told me he made an account under the same name a while back before registration was closed. I can't seem to find his username so maybe Marcus deleted it after he saw he had 0 posts.

[danewilson77]

Yeah...most likely the Boss "Let him go".

If the guy wasn't contributing here, then he might not be a good fit.

[nike001]

Nah, he's here. He got on his account and PM'd me here.

I told him that we have an introduction part of the forum and to poke his head in whatever threads he wants.

[danewilson77]

Nah, he's here. He got on his account and PM'd me here.

I told him that we have an introduction part of the forum and to poke his head in whatever threads he wants.

Ok. So you found it. Good.

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[das boots]

Anybody in need of AL Bowls? I think it's a great price although I do not have any idea on how much they really cost....

BTW...no affiliation.

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=925092

[///Maniak]

I'm emailing Jack about them right now. From Charlie's DIY, it looks a bit more daunting than I'd like to tackle.

[cakM3]

Dang! I didn't think my DIY would intimidate anyone... I made the DIY to actually help others to do this if they had the time and patience to take on this type of project....

[///Maniak]

It's an awesome DIY, I just don't think I have the patience/skill to take on something like that!

[cakM3]

Ben,

Clear your inbox so I can respond to your PM :thumbsup

[das boots]

I'm emailing Jack about them right now. From Charlie's DIY, it looks a bit more daunting than I'd like to tackle.

I'm glad at least I'm able to help somebody.......

[jack.chris328]

Hey all,

I read threw a little over half of this thread and saw JupiterBMW's build thread and saw that there where questions of how to retain the bulb for the E90 projectors. I though I would post a method up here as another route go. Here are some pictures of the end result.

http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_b6566fb0.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/b6566fb0.jpg) http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_5ac8cb78.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/5ac8cb78.jpg) http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_c7a36735.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/c7a36735.jpg) http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_936705b3.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/936705b3.jpg) http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_65bc8ccf.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/65bc8ccf.jpg) http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/th_d79213fa.jpg (http://i831.photobucket.com/albums/zz237/JackChristian/E46/Headlights/d79213fa.jpg)

So there is another method to try out. I used the E90 D1S bulb retaining wire for this. I took off the small plate and cut the wire in half. I did a little dremel work to the housing to open up the second hook to accept the left wire. Then through trial and error bent up the wire so that the tension was appropriate to hold the bulb securely while keeping enough wire against the bulb to keep it flush.

[rdhamill]

This thread has been very useful, thanks guys.
I have an issue with my left headlight, seems it likes to stay on high beam when switched to low, at least until the car hits a bump. Right works fine. I'm thinking it might be an issue with some binding.
I plan to take the light apart to see if I can fix it up, and while I'm there, I'd like to find the right wire to use as a trigger for a relay to switch my inner halogens on with the high beam.
thanks again.

[brettbimmer]

This thread has been very useful, thanks guys.
I have an issue with my left headlight, seems it likes to stay on high beam when switched to low, at least until the car hits a bump. Right works fine. I'm thinking it might be an issue with some binding.
I plan to take the light apart to see if I can fix it up, and while I'm there, I'd like to find the right wire to use as a trigger for a relay to switch my inner halogens on with the high beam.
thanks again.

I am willing to bet that the issue with the high beam (assuming you are running Xenons) is with the small solenoid that activates the high/low shutter or "eyelid" on the light, or perhaps some binding with this mechanism.

Also, you can simply modify the inner halogens to work with the outer lights (and even fog lights as well to run all three sets of lights, known here as the Tri-fecta Light Mod) with some computer coding work. Several members here have done this for other owners, and it is a GREAT mod, only requiring a computer, coding software, and proper plug.

[danewilson77]

I am willing to bet that the issue with the high beam (assuming you are running Xenons) is with the small solenoid that activates the high/low shutter or "eyelid" on the light, or perhaps some binding with this mechanism.

Also, you can simply modify the inner halogens to work with the outer lights (and even fog lights as well to run all three sets of lights, known here as the Tri-fecta Light Mod) with some computer coding work. Several members here have done this for other owners, and it is a GREAT mod, only requiring a computer, coding software, and proper plug.

Yep. I had this exact problem. Reach in there and cycle it by hand.

HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA

[rdhamill]

I got a chance to have a look at my headlight shutter issue. As mentioned above, there seemed to be some added friction on the solenoid shaft. After working it by hand a few times, a put a little powdered graphite on it. now it works perfect. Hope it continues to do so.

thanks guys.

[danewilson77]

Nice werk.

[dyintorace]

So I just finished reading this entire thread, because my bowels are crispy and my light output is truly dangerous. The comments about cars creating shadows is literally true. Sitting at a stoplight, I can see my car outlined by the car behind me.

So...I need to do something about my lighting. I'm not nearly confident enough to tackle taking my lights apart and trying to fix them myself. Knowing that, it seems like my best option is Lightwerkz, so I'll contact them.

The only thing I'm unsure of is all the talk about the FX-R retrofit. Would someone be willing to explain that further? Is that something I'd have to attempt on my own?

Thanks for the insight everyone.

[danewilson77]

Crispy bowels. That's truly awesome.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4

[dyintorace]

LOL. Epic misspelling! Sorry!

[danewilson77]

LOL. Epic misspelling! Sorry!

Actually, we congratulate misspelled words on this forum.

The more the merrier. :)

I would not be considered human had I given you a pass on "crispy bowels" though.

As a side note: Nothing was misspelled.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4

[dyintorace]

Actually, we congratulate misspelled words on this forum.

The more the merrier. :)

I would not be considered human had I given you a pass on "crispy bowels" though.

As a side note: Nothing was misspelled.

Good point. Not a misspelling, rather a wrong, hilariously so, word. Crispy bowels are an entirely different issue! :rofl

[trancenation]

For those who may not be aware, E46 M3 AL Bi-Xenons Headlights can be used in Facelift Sedans. I have confirmed this by installing a pair today. All that is required: AL lower mounting bracket, swap the inner bezel with the Sedan one, swap the headlight lens covers, and swap the top weatherstrip brow.

Good luck to everyone with their burnt bowl fixes!

[SoCalZman]

For those who may not be aware, E46 M3 AL Bi-Xenons can be used in Facelift Sedans. I have confirmed this by installing a pair today. All that is required: AL lower mounting bracket, swap the inner bezel with the Sedan one, swap the headlight lens covers, and swap the top weatherstrip brow.

I was able to source my set for a little under $600 shipped and they were manufactured in 2010. Good luck to everyone with their burnt bowl fixes!

Very good info. did you find that out on another forum? How are M3 Xenons different than the lesser non facelift coupes? Not Bi?

[trancenation]

Very good info. did you find that out on another forum? How are M3 Xenons different than the lesser non facelift coupes? Not Bi?

I confirmed with Jack on E46Fanatics about this set-up. From my understanding you are correct about the xenon part. The early non-facelift coupes will have not have bi-xenon as it was an option later on. The M3 Xenons will have a black inner bezel rather than silver. A plus about the M3 Headlight assembly is that the drivers side light has extension wires for the ballast that allow you place the ballast elsewhere and to run a larger Air Intake in that space as the E46 M3 does.

[HiFiGuy]

Well, add me to the "burnt bowls" club. :help I am researching ways to fix this for my son's 2003 ZHP sedan. I have read with interest the fixes that have been done, from E90 bowls adapted to the ZKW assemblies (doesn't seem ideal due to the bowl/lamp geometry), to E46 M3 bowls (which are adapted/bolted to the ZKWs? Not totally clear on how this is done), to replacing the ZKW assemblies in whole with ones from Bosch AL units but keeping the ZKW focusing optics, to some aftermarket kits from TRS and Lightwerkz. I saw someone who apparently bought brand new Magnetti Marelli AL units for about $1500/set, but that's not gonna happen for me.

With all the experience on this forum doing these mods and/or swaps, what is the consensus? My first reaction is to buy some pre-owned Bosch AL units from eBay, along with the brackets, or maybe just mod the existing brackets, and swap in the ZKW focusing optics from the current assemblies. That will cost me some time and about $600-700. Is there a better overall solution that costs the same or less? Ideally, I would like to do this once and do it correctly. The car has 140k on it, and other than occasionally replacing a bad HP Bav Auto coil that I should have never bought, it runs well and is my son's only transportation while he's at college, which he just started this semester. Currently, the headlights are so bad that the driving lights clearly outperform them, and only with the driving lights is the car even marginally safe to drive at night.

One more question. Before I knew about the ZKW problem, I already bought a brand new set of clear covers and gaskets for the front of both headlights, because the old ones were in full cataract mode. Also bought two brand new Philips HID OEM Xenon lamps. I think I can reuse the new lamps, but will the clear covers and gaskets fit the AL headlights?

Thanks in advance! Glad to be a part of this excellent forum.

[Vas]

Lightwerkz. $510 for a complete retrofit.

[BMWCurves]

Lightwerkz. $510 for a complete retrofit.

That's for both headlights, correct?

[HiFiGuy]

Vas,
Better than OEM Bosch AL with ZKW optics? I thought that was the "if you can, do that" choice.

[Vas]

$510 is for both headlights. That is what they quoted me but I have not pulled the plug yet to do it.

AL headlights are nice but hard to find, can be the same price or higher and are still old. I suggest retrofit because of the new parts used and warranty

[KevinC]

Has anyone looked at Schmiedmann as a replacement source? They have impossibly cheap Hella E39 replacements - $381, purchased by known people here stateside and they're the equivalent of OEM, but with a Hella part number only. They seem to have a ton of E46 options, including either AL or ZKW, at fairly high prices, but those are with BMW part numbers. They have OE versions at far cheaper prices.. check this out.. also on page 4 they have replacement lenses too...

http://www.schmiedmann.com/3_series/E46/Spare_parts_-_Lightning-heater_and_interior/Lighting_and_indikators_in-outside/page1.htm

[HiFiGuy]

Pulled the trigger on a decent passenger's side complete Bosch AL system on eBay. Made an offer of $150 plus shipping, and he agreed. And so it begins. I already bought two new clear headlight covers and two Philips D2S lamps, and the existing eyebrow gaskets are in good to excellent shape. Now to find a driver's side assembly for a good price.

[danewilson77]

That's an insane deal. Well done.

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Bump for 2wenty.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[330i Lover]

For those, like me, who are interested in the cost for Lightwerkz to correct the burnt bowls syndrome see below. I emailed them yesterday on options to correct the issue and that I have a 04 ZHP Sedan with Xeonons. They responded this morning

"The labor for that job comes to $400.
We use the FXR projectors for that car which cost $110
The halos we put in that car come to $280.
We do not offer a core/exchange service.

Please let me know if you would like to discuss the details further."

So to wrap it up without the angel eyes addition it would be roughly $510, with is $790. Since they don't do a core/exchange option I'll have to reply to get more information on whether or not the $510/$790 options are with brand new equipment or ZKW's that have been repaired in some way. Stay tuned.

[Vas]

For those, like me, who are interested in the cost for Lightwerkz to correct the burnt bowls syndrome see below. I emailed them yesterday on options to correct the issue and that I have a 04 ZHP Sedan with Xeonons. They responded this morning

"The labor for that job comes to $400.
We use the FXR projectors for that car which cost $110
The halos we put in that car come to $280.
We do not offer a core/exchange service.

Please let me know if you would like to discuss the details further."

So to wrap it up without the angel eyes addition it would be roughly $510, with is $790. Since they don't do a core/exchange option I'll have to reply to get more information on whether or not the $510/$790 options are with brand new equipment or ZKW's that have been repaired in some way. Stay tuned.

I just was in communication with them as well.

This is what I got for a quote. See below

The labor rate is $400, but projectors down to $110. $510 plus return shipping. let me know if you want to move forward I can send a deposit request. Thanks!

Caesar Rowinski
President


You have to either send your current headlights to them in New Jersey or drive to their location for the work to be done. As far as I know, they remove the current projectors from the headlights and replace them with brand new morimoto FX-R projectors. Then they ship them back to you to install and adjust them.

[330i Lover]

I see. That's cool you got the President to reply, do you have family in another mafia that we don't know anything about Vas?

http://i1103.photobucket.com/albums/g472/garrett141us/mafia_zpsvw3nsh6c.jpg

[Vas]

I see. That's cool you got the President to reply, do you have family in another mafia that we don't know anything about Vas?

http://i1103.photobucket.com/albums/g472/garrett141us/mafia_zpsvw3nsh6c.jpg

Ha. Good one.

Btw I sent you a PM.

[BMWCurves]

Do you already have angel eyes or is the $280 for new halos plus labor? You can save yourself some money by installing halos yourself, they aren't hard to do.

[az3579]

I see. That's cool you got the President to reply, do you have family in another mafia that we don't know anything about Vas?

http://i1103.photobucket.com/albums/g472/garrett141us/mafia_zpsvw3nsh6c.jpg
lol
I'm somewhat sure he's a one man shop. I dealt with Caesar when I dropped off my lights to have him work on 'em. Awesome to work with and very knowledgeable. :thumbsup

sent from my Droid Turbo

[330i Lover]

Do you already have angel eyes or is the $280 for new halos plus labor? You can save yourself some money by installing halos yourself, they aren't hard to do.

I don't currently have angel eyes. $280 would be the price of the angel eyes and the labor for them installed. Ya, I might have them do just the projector/bowl fix and do the angel eyes later. It would be much easier just to fork over the $ but that's a lot of cheese.

I emailed them back for more info. I'm glad that other mafia members give him/them good reviews, that's important.

[Vas]

I would do the retrofit and then install the Angel Eyes at a later point yourself.

[330i Lover]

I think you're right on point. How is your sales pitching these days? Maybe you tell him that he can do both of ours and he'll give you a discount for referring a friend or somethin? Or maybe he can buy az3579 a steak lunch maybe?

[Vas]

I think you're right on point. How is your sales pitching these days? Maybe you tell him that he can do both of ours and he'll give you a discount for referring a friend or somethin? Or maybe he can buy az3579 a steak lunch maybe?
Ha I am not that good. But I do like a good steak

[az3579]

Or maybe he can buy az3579 a steak lunch maybe?

Wait, wha??? Steak??? Where's this coming from?
You can't do this to me... now I'm salivating!

[330i Lover]

I run a small business and when people give me good feedback or referrals I take em out for lunch, maybe maybe he respects the ribeye? az, does saying the word ribeye make you salivate more?

http://www.thebaldchef.net/images/drunkenribeye.jpg

[az3579]

I run a small business and when people give me good feedback or referrals I take em out for lunch

That's really nice. Never heard of anyone doing that for their customers.



, maybe maybe he respects the ribeye? az, does saying the word ribeye make you salivate more?

A little less... Not a fan of fat in steak. Don't like the consistency.



sent from my Droid Turbo

[anandoc]

If you are able to find a spare headlamp assembly, you can do the retrofit yourself. Its pretty darn easy and a lot of fun along the way.

I followed DIYs and did the FX-R 3.0 retrofit myself last year. I managed to pick up a spare set of non-working ZKW headlamp assemblies (without the projectors) and used the frames within to mount the new FX-Rs. That was the hardest part (with all the cutting, drilling etc). Once I had that ready, it was a matter of taking off my working headlamps and swapping out the inner frames with the new projectors already mounted.

$400 is way too much for labor in my opinion. Didn't take me more than 2 hours to do all the cutting etc and another hour to maybe swap out the frames.

[az3579]

$400 is way too much for labor in my opinion. Didn't take me more than 2 hours to do all the cutting etc and another hour to maybe swap out the frames.

Cutting/modifying isn't for everyone. That is why I paid the $400. I don't trust myself to not burn a piece of toast; let's not even talk about a projector retrofit. :rofl

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Sockethead]

Yea, I didn't have the time or patience to do it myself. Plus, as I get older, my close up eyesight gets worse.

BTW, the angel eyes that Lightwerkz installs are Umnitza

[az3579]

BTW, the angel eyes that Lightwerkz installs are Umnitza

Only the best. :thumbsup

[Johnmadd]

Only the best. :thumbsup

+1

[Sockethead]

Only the best. :thumbsup
That's what they said...

[330i Lover]

That's what they said...
Not to be confused with.....that's what she said!

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/36/3a/55/363a5508878d30c59f2263031ee3d443.jpg

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk

[NickZHP]

I have the burnt ZKW bowls. Are the most popular options to fix this the Lightwerks FXR 3.0 and TRFS Morimoto Retrofit (https://www.theretrofitsource.com/complete-retrofit-kits/morimoto-retro-quik-system-bmw-e46-zkw-lights-only.html)? Can anyone comment on how nice the Morimoto retrofit is? I like the price and believe it is an easy install correct? And the Lightwerkz retrofit requires a more advanced install which is why most people pay them to do it?

[330i Lover]

This is a debatable subject for some but speaking from personal experience I'm very happy with buying the replacement bowls from ClemsonE46 and just swapping out the bowls. There's no cutting, no drilling, no retrofitting and I like how I'm using OEM parts that have been coated to produce better light than factory without using aftermarket parts. It took quit a bit of time to figure out how to replace them but I'd be glad to help if that's the road you decide to go down. It's very easy on the wallet and satisfying at the same time.

[NickZHP]

This is a debatable subject for some but speaking from personal experience I'm very happy with buying the replacement bowls from ClemsonE46 and just swapping out the bowls. There's no cutting, no drilling, no retrofitting and I like how I'm using OEM parts that have been coated to produce better light than factory without using aftermarket parts. It took quit a bit of time to figure out how to replace them but I'd be glad to help if that's the road you decide to go down. It's very easy on the wallet and satisfying at the same time.

Is there a forum link with more info? Also would that last as long as buying a new retrofit? How does the quality compare?

[330i Lover]

Yes, search for "ZKW Burnt bowl OEM replacements". I posted before and after with a slew of other info. I'll get you a link if you can't find it.

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[theothersawyer]

I'm in the process of working on a group buy for the TRS Retrofit kit.

[NickZHP]

Yes, search for "ZKW Burnt bowl OEM replacements". I posted before and after with a slew of other info. I'll get you a link if you can't find it.

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Seems like these (https://www.theretrofitsource.com/complete-retrofit-kits/morimoto-retro-quik-system-bmw-e46-zkw-lights-only.html#.Vtj0OpwrKUk) are the cheaper option though. He charges $240 + shipping. Is there a reason I should buy one over the other?

[330i Lover]

Seems like these (https://www.theretrofitsource.com/complete-retrofit-kits/morimoto-retro-quik-system-bmw-e46-zkw-lights-only.html#.Vtj0OpwrKUk) are the cheaper option though. He charges $240 + shipping. Is there a reason I should buy one over the other?
For me it was OEM and plug in play vs. 3rd party and cutting/drilling/the unknown. Plus there were quite a few other reviewers here that made it an easier decision.

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[NickZHP]

For me it was OEM and plug in play vs. 3rd party and cutting/drilling/the unknown. Plus there were quite a few other reviewers here that made it an easier decision.

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That makes sense. I don't think the TRFS retrofit will be that hard but if the quality of the remade ZKW bowls are better than I think I would go for those. But what if they don't hold up? Is there anyone who can chime in on how they compare in quality? Or is there anyone who has had the remade ZKW bowls for more than a year?

[330i Lover]

The re-dipped bowls are the same, arguably better than when they were new. I think "metalized coating" would be my best step to describe the ones from ClemsonE46. They are 100% OEM. If you search his burnt bowl page you'll see reviews from customers life me for quite some time. Maybe msg them to see how they're holding up? I highly recommend them over aftermarket, but that's just me.

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[NickZHP]

The re-dipped bowls are the same, arguably better than when they were new. I think "metalized coating" would be my best step to describe the ones from ClemsonE46. They are 100% OEM. If you search his burnt bowl page you'll see reviews from customers life me for quite some time. Maybe msg them to see how they're holding up? I highly recommend them over aftermarket, but that's just me.

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If they're 100% OEM doesn't that mean they are susceptible to becoming burned again? Or does the metal coating prevent that since the stock ZKW bowls were plastic?

[330i Lover]

To my knowledge the metal coating prevents them burning out again.

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[cakM3]

If they're 100% OEM doesn't that mean they are susceptible to becoming burned again? Or does the metal coating prevent that since the stock ZKW bowls were plastic?

With my ZHP, I ended up getting a set of AL headlight assemblies then transplanted the ZKW lenses into them. The AL headlight assemblies can be found for less than $600 a set and the rest is easy. The AL projector bowls are metal and will never burn like the plastic ZKW bowls did. Peace of mind here...


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[holyc0w]

Are there any retrofits that don't involve cutting?

Has anybody tried a retrofit other than the FX-R?

[melonz]

Does anyone have a mix of AL and ZKW headlight assemblies?

It appears I have AL on the drivers side and ZKW on the passenger side. However this is just from the covers but I do see a horizontal line across the driver's side projector and from what I've read that is an indication of AL.

I can't remember if the passenger side has the horizontal line present but I'll check when I leave in the morning.

Also a slightly related tidbit of info. The difference between the AL cover vs the ZKW lenses are night and day. ZKW have aged considerably worse than the AL lenses and are starting to haze/yellow. AL ones are definitely just as dinged up but have yet to haze/yellow.

[Vas]

Does anyone have a mix of AL and ZKW headlight assemblies?

It appears I have AL on the drivers side and ZKW on the passenger side. However this is just from the covers but I do see a horizontal line across the driver's side projector and from what I've read that is an indication of AL.

I can't remember if the passenger side has the horizontal line present but I'll check when I leave in the morning.

Also a slightly related tidbit of info. The difference between the AL cover vs the ZKW lenses are night and day. ZKW have aged considerably worse than the AL lenses and are starting to haze/yellow. AL ones are definitely just as dinged up but have yet to haze/yellow.

Look at the top of the headlight. There is a sticker there that says either AL or ZKW.

[jack.chris328]

Does anyone have a mix of AL and ZKW headlight assemblies?

It appears I have AL on the drivers side and ZKW on the passenger side. However this is just from the covers but I do see a horizontal line across the driver's side projector and from what I've read that is an indication of AL.

I can't remember if the passenger side has the horizontal line present but I'll check when I leave in the morning.

Also a slightly related tidbit of info. The difference between the AL cover vs the ZKW lenses are night and day. ZKW have aged considerably worse than the AL lenses and are starting to haze/yellow. AL ones are definitely just as dinged up but have yet to haze/yellow.

The information label on the top of the headlight is usually more than half covered up by the core support. But you can tell by the color of the label. An AL light will have a yellow label and the ZKW will be a shiny silver label.

[Sockethead]

IMO, if I had to do it again, I would definitely gotten these reconditioned bowls rather than do the FX-R conversion. I like keeping these kind of things OEM. Unfortunately for me, He started offering these after I had my conversion done.

[holyc0w]

If I can't find anyone to do the retrofit in the area, I'll do the bowls or get a set of ALs. The worrying thing about the reconditioned bowls would be the bowls burning or cracking again.

[melonz]

Thanks for telling me how to identify the brand. Looks like I do have AL on the driver's and ZKW on the passenger side.

[theothersawyer]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my headlights! I went with "The Retrofit Source" and the install sucked, but it was so worth it!

[330i Lover]

I've had Clemsone46's replacement bowls for about 14 months with 0 issues and extremely happy with them. I highly recommend it.

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[dpark]

I just installed Clemsone46's bowls today. While the instructions were straightforward, being careful to not break any plastic tabs in the process, it took 4 hours for both headlights. Getting the bowls in/out takes quite a bit of patience (IMO) but the fact that it is OEM is a big plus.

The only thing that isn't "perfect" is the consistency of the light output. This is not a criticism of the brightness. The reburb bulbs definitely put out a lot of light (especially compared to the burnt bowls), probably as much as the original bulbs. But the light is not "even" on the road. From left to right across the road, the headlights have areas that are brighter than others. Not a "dropout of light" by any means.

I posted a new thread with pics of before and after. In the "after" photos, you can see the headlights on my garage cabinets and get an idea of what I am talking about.

[holyc0w]

My mechanic said they could do a retrofit. I was thinking the EvoX-R kit should be good, but I know there are brighter options. What are the things to consider and parts needed for the different options?

[JPMo]

I just installed Clemsone46's bowls today. While the instructions were straightforward, being careful to not break any plastic tabs in the process, it took 4 hours for both headlights. Getting the bowls in/out takes quite a bit of patience (IMO) but the fact that it is OEM is a big plus.

The only thing that isn't "perfect" is the consistency of the light output. This is not a criticism of the brightness. The reburb bulbs definitely put out a lot of light (especially compared to the burnt bowls), probably as much as the original bulbs. But the light is not "even" on the road. From left to right across the road, the headlights have areas that are brighter than others. Not a "dropout of light" by any means.

I posted a new thread with pics of before and after. In the "after" photos, you can see the headlights on my garage cabinets and get an idea of what I am talking about.

I agree, I've been running the refurbished bowls for a week or so now and while a MASSIVE improvement over the burnt bowls, there are definitely hot spots in the light output. Hoping they last 2 years or so before I buy a set of Magnetti Marelli's.

[dpark]

I agree, I've been running the refurbished bowls for a week or so now and while a MASSIVE improvement over the burnt bowls, there are definitely hot spots in the light output. Hoping they last 2 years or so before I buy a set of Magnetti Marelli's.

Funny you mentioned the MMs. I saw those for sale on ebay. Both sides for $1000. When the reburbs go out, I will buy probably buy those too...

If the refurbs last a couple of years, I will be very happy. Just glad I can see at night again :)

[Cadeez]

I read through the last 10 pages or so, hoping for some specific info but wasn't able to find anything. I see a few different replacement options mentioned, Lightwerks, The Retrofit Source, etc. Does anyone have a link for either one? The Lightwerks site is pretty vague and I couldn't find anything regarding BMW. Is the below the right link for the Retrofit Source? Is this a good option? $175 seems like a great deal. Open to all options, ready...GO!

https://www.theretrofitsource.com/all-products/morimoto-retroquik-bmw-e46-zkw-repair.html?carDisplay=2004+BMW+3-Series+%28HID+Equipped%29&preselect=&preselect_restrict=1

Also, I'm looking for a good DIY to follow. Sorry if these questions are answered somewhere in this thread, but frankly I just don't have time to read through 36 pages of stuff... Thanks in advance!

[holyc0w]

That's the kit I'll be having installed next week (indy). If you're looking to DIY, that's probably the best retrofit option. That's the right page for TRS and it references a thread here for installation: http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself. Some people noted their installation experiences there.

[Lorenzo]

I read through the last 10 pages or so, hoping for some specific info but wasn't able to find anything. I see a few different replacement options mentioned, Lightwerks, The Retrofit Source, etc. Does anyone have a link for either one? The Lightwerks site is pretty vague and I couldn't find anything regarding BMW. Is the below the right link for the Retrofit Source? Is this a good option? $175 seems like a great deal. Open to all options, ready...GO!

https://www.theretrofitsource.com/all-products/morimoto-retroquik-bmw-e46-zkw-repair.html?carDisplay=2004+BMW+3-Series+%28HID+Equipped%29&preselect=&preselect_restrict=1

Also, I'm looking for a good DIY to follow. Sorry if these questions are answered somewhere in this thread, but frankly I just don't have time to read through 36 pages of stuff... Thanks in advance!

I bought the retrofit kit earlier this week. I'll be installing in a few weeks and will report back. There's a zhpMafia link on the retrofit page for the install or here:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself

[anandoc]

I read through the last 10 pages or so, hoping for some specific info but wasn't able to find anything. I see a few different replacement options mentioned, Lightwerks, The Retrofit Source, etc. Does anyone have a link for either one? The Lightwerks site is pretty vague and I couldn't find anything regarding BMW. Is the below the right link for the Retrofit Source? Is this a good option? $175 seems like a great deal. Open to all options, ready...GO!

https://www.theretrofitsource.com/all-products/morimoto-retroquik-bmw-e46-zkw-repair.html?carDisplay=2004+BMW+3-Series+%28HID+Equipped%29&preselect=&preselect_restrict=1

Also, I'm looking for a good DIY to follow. Sorry if these questions are answered somewhere in this thread, but frankly I just don't have time to read through 36 pages of stuff... Thanks in advance!

The link you posted is the correct one. Here is a DIY for that kit:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself

You can also go crazy and do the FX-R 3.0 retrofit. It requires a little more dremelling and is not a complete plug-n-play like the retro-quick kit. Here is the DIY that I followed when I did the FX-R retrofit:

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=760394

[Cadeez]

That's the kit I'll be having installed next week (indy). If you're looking to DIY, that's probably the best retrofit option. That's the right page for TRS and it references a thread here for installation: http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself. Some people noted their installation experiences there.

Awesome thanks for confirming! What is the need for the JB Weld shroud epoxy, and did you get it?


I bought the retrofit kit earlier this week. I'll be installing in a few weeks and will report back. There's a zhpMafia link on the retrofit page for the install or here:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself

Thank you! Looking forward to the results and write-up. What is the need for the JB Weld shroud epoxy, and did you get it?


The link you posted is the correct one. Here is a DIY for that kit:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10787-DIY-The-Retrofit-Source-(TRS)-Retro-Quick-System-Burnt-ZKW-Bowls-Projector-Retrofit-doityourself

You can also go crazy and do the FX-R 3.0 retrofit. It requires a little more dremelling and is not a complete plug-n-play like the retro-quick kit. Here is the DIY that I followed when I did the FX-R retrofit:

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=760394

Perfect, thank you. I think I'll roll with the TRFS kit, seems like the best and easiest option at this point, less work = more awesome

[Lorenzo]

What D2S brand bulbs are recommended? OSRAM? Should I keep away from Chinese after market ones that are $10 vs $50 for OSRAM? I read the cheap Chinese ones burn hot and can burn my bowls all over again. Is that true?

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[Cadeez]

If you have the $$, I suggest buying Osram or Phillips, they are worth the money in the end. I bought some 6k bulbs from Khoalty on my last car, one was dead out of the box and the other ended up burning out in a few months. The bulb install is a PITA (unless your headlights are out of the car) so I say roll with the nice ones for headlights, they'll last muuuch longer. Not only that, but the cheaper bulbs don't have the same light output. Nice OEM Osram or Phillips bulbs have that crisp clean/clear cutoff line, if you pull up to a flat wall you can see it, very distinct

[Vas]

What D2S brand bulbs are recommended? OSRAM? Should I keep away from Chinese after market ones that are $10 vs $50 for OSRAM? I read the cheap Chinese ones burn hot and can burn my bowls all over again. Is that true?

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Depending on budget. My recommendations:

http://www.lightwerkz.net/index.php/components/hid-bulbs/d-series/morimoto-xb35-d2s-bulbs.html

or

http://www.lightwerkz.net/index.php/components/hid-bulbs/d-series/osram-66240-cbi-d2s-bulbs.html

[Lorenzo]

If you have the $$, I suggest buying Osram or Phillips, they are worth the money in the end. I bought some 6k bulbs from Khoalty on my last car, one was dead out of the box and the other ended up burning out in a few months. The bulb install is a PITA (unless your headlights are out of the car) so I say roll with the nice ones for headlights, they'll last muuuch longer. Not only that, but the cheaper bulbs don't have the same light output. Nice OEM Osram or Phillips bulbs have that crisp clean/clear cutoff line, if you pull up to a flat wall you can see it, very distinct

Thanks. Agreed. I ordered the OSRAM. $95 for the pair on Amazon Prime.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170322/6ece4bdcde25472989da4202f42b976e.jpg


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[holyc0w]

I'm re-using my old bulbs for now.


Awesome thanks for confirming! What is the need for the JB Weld shroud epoxy, and did you get it?


Not sure, but I got it as well as the high beam splitters. TRS said the splitters were cheap insurance.

[Cadeez]

Depending on budget. My recommendations:

http://www.lightwerkz.net/index.php/components/hid-bulbs/d-series/morimoto-xb35-d2s-bulbs.html

or

http://www.lightwerkz.net/index.php/components/hid-bulbs/d-series/osram-66240-cbi-d2s-bulbs.html

Good choices there, thanks Vas


Thanks. Agreed. I ordered the OSRAM. $95 for the pair on Amazon Prime.

Good deal, 5500k will be nice!


I'm re-using my old bulbs for now.

Not sure, but I got it as well as the high beam splitters. TRS said the splitters were cheap insurance.

So the splitters are just a wiring harness? What's the function, or point of buying it? And which choice did you get? Also, I thought this kit was just new stainless bowls, but it comes with the projector lenses as well? Can we not reuse our OEM projectors? Is there a benefit or downside to the new projectors vs OEM ones from the car?

[holyc0w]

So the splitters are just a wiring harness? What's the function, or point of buying it? And which choice did you get? Also, I thought this kit was just new stainless bowls, but it comes with the projector lenses as well? Can we not reuse our OEM projectors? is there a benefit or downside to the new projectors vs OEM ones from the car?

Sorry, I didn't ask too much since I won't be doing the installation. The default splitter option(top) is what they told me. If you call them or contact them on their website, I'm sure they would be happy to answer your questions. I didn't think of switching out the projector lenses.

[Cadeez]

Gotcha, I'll feel them out when I place my order. Thanks

[holyc0w]

I had them installed, but still haven't had the chance to try them at night. I think I need to adjust them up a bit as the cut-off looked a bit low in the parking garage. They didn't end up using the high beam splitter.

One thing that did throw me off was that the Evox-R bowls are plastic. I'm not sure that was mentioned before and prior experience leaves me a little skeptical. :shift

[Frankygoes]

I did this job and the results are amazing.
I realize I was driving blind at night...

I have condensation inside the lens (See picture). Is this because I did not change the seal on the lens ?
30444

[jorbon]

Ordered E46 ZKW RetroQuick Repair Kit from The Retrofit Source. This is what they sent when I asked for instructions. Clearly limited... Thanks to all of you for adding the detail.

[jorbon]

Their so-called kit isn't much of a kit, but at the end of the day, I'm happy that I can see again.

Their instructions aren't worth the pdf they're printed on, but thanks to some folks here and elsewhere posting photos and or videos I ended up making it all work.

Couple of things from my install come to mind as worth passing on, things that I've not seen in other discussions of this install (although that may simply be because I sometimes have a knack for not seeing the obvious.)

1) Once you've ground the plastic away to mount the brackets flush, they can fit 4 different ways but there is only 1 correct fit... the one that matches the bowl/lens assembly being mounted with the high-beam shutter on the bottom opposite the flat edge of the housing (because the lens flips L to R and top to bottom.)

2) When you re-use the screws from the original assembly to mount the new bracket, there may be clearance issues when mounting the bowl/lens assembly... I addressed this by shortening the screws.

3) You will not use all of the parts that TRS sends. They toss several completely useless items into the kit so that if the lack of instructions doesn't confuse you, the extra rings and electric coupler will. You will only use the 1 thick dark plastic ring if you are doing the zkw replacement as I did.

4) the provided electrical lead to the high beam shutter will need to be clipped/soldiered/sealed before being plugged into the new bowl/lens. Getting it to seat once it is ready to be attached is not easy, as the spot it goes into is narrow and deep. Getting it back out seems nearly impossible, so I'd suggest checking your work several times before plugging the high beam shutter lead into the new bowl/lens.

5) If you turned the height adjustment knob all the way so that the lights point down to remove the silver parts from the black housing when disassembling the lights as some instructions rightly suggest, I recommend that prior to reinstalling the completed lights into the housing you first turn the middle height adjustment knob all the way back (as if the lights are aimed fully upward) before trying to seat the lights in the housing for a much easier reassembly.

It is amazing what some of us have been missing with the burnt bowls. The difference in lighting is really quite drastic.

It is also amazing that BMW has not made right on this clear safety issue.