Lighting Product Evaluation/FYI

[232 thumper]

Hi All -
I solved my fog light problem and thought I would pass on my experience with the products I used.

I ordered the PIAA front valance replacement. They advertise it as a simple direct replacement for the factory part. I was not able to confirm what it was made out of. I expected simple fiberglass that would require a tone of fitting/re-fitting and then unfortunately have to painted. I had made up my mind to simply paint it black knowing that I would most likely be doing frequent touch ups do to winter road sanding, etc.
I was SOOOOO wrong....
This thing is made of the exact same urethane as the factory part - except in black vs that horrible "wheel chair tire grey" color. The fit was perfect - it looks like a factory part. The kit includes all mounting hardware for both the valence and the new lights. The hardest part of this install was the removal of the old valance. I have no idea what GM was thinking when they designed the fasteners used to hold it on. In our manuals it says the valence is removable for off road - that is BS - it would take you way over an hour to get them off - maybe 2.

The valance has openings for 7" round lights. I went to our local 4x4 shop and the PIAA lights they reccommended were 275.00 (55watt amber fogs). I thought that was total crap. I went with a 55 watt Hella 500 that uses the reflector to create the amber color and a standard H-3 bulb (vs the PIAA that uses a $32.00 colored H-3 that has to be special ordered - what a racket..). The Hella's were 7" round and 89.00. They mounted easily on the brackets.
Here is the cool part - no new wiring. I simply changed the end on the factory loom and plugged them right in - two minutes!

My timing was pretty good as we had snow and fog all weekend here in Colorado. What a difference! I easily drove over Loveland Pass in a virtual white out with only these light on. It was so great.

Thanks to ebay and going with non-Piaa lighting, I am into this project for right at 200.00 (usually the valence alone is $229 + shipping). So I have function, the truck looks great - still appearing stock to those not in the know.

[chuck16]

Any pics to go along with this thread???

[232 thumper]

I cant figure out how to post pics (I don't see the option). I have a feeling I havent posted enough to have access yet. Sorry!

[jeverett]

Good deal man, I'm glad it all worked out for ya.

I've tried to e-mail you since the other day, but Earthlink won't seem to let me.

[ryanszpara]

damn man.... sounds awesome. I want some big hella lights on my truck.

I was goin to get a westin light bar, but your idea sounds awesome....wish i could see some pics....

Ryan

[232 thumper]

I put a couple of pics pic in my gallery. It is not my truck, just the ad for the airdam.
Jeverette - drop me a PM....