Thread: Headlight Bulbs

Originally Posted by douger

I'm curious. A diode is basically a one way valve. It allows current to flow in one direction but not another. There are several inside the alternator to convert the AC output of the alternator into the DC current that everything in your car runs on.

I'm not aware of any voltage boosting properties with diodes. In fact, bulbs are rated at a particular voltage. Running more voltage through them certainly would make them brighter, but at the cost of durability.

Diode is a check valve but reduces the voltage by .6 volts as it flows through it. The sense voltage to the regulator is being dropped by .6 volts so the alternator puts out .6 more to accommodate.

Ruffly a 5% increase. DC motor spin 5% faster (think fuel pump more volume not more pressure). Heated seats, lights etc.... Plus 5%

Zzp sells one you can plug inline ($20) or you can solder a diode inline

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