Where to mount HID ballasts?

[watchknut]

I got a pair of IPF 900xs HID lights and I was wondering the best position for mounting the ballasts. Also, anything I should know before installing them? I read they are not waterproof, has anyone waterproofed theirs? Thanks.

 

[smm3]

I bought a pair of DDM ballasts for my low beams. They came with a small bracket. I pulled the side marker lights and mounted the ballasts inside the fender. I don't know if you have enough wiring to get that done or not. Other have mounted them by the radiator.

I don't think it would be necessary to waterproof them unless you are planning lots of water crossings. Even then I don't think its necessary in my opinion. I am sure others will chime in with other possible locations.

 

[petrotk40]

I mounted mine like in this post: https://forum.ih8mud.com/6785807-post176.html

except I bent mine up to make running wires easier. over a year and doing great.

lots of ideas in that thread

 

[watchknut]

Awesome, that is a huge help! Not planning on doing a lot of water crossing, so these positions should be fine.

 

[2000UZJ]

What ballasts are you running?

 

[watchknut]

Osram 35XT5-D1, they are OEM from IPF.

 

[2000UZJ]

Osram 35XT5-D1, they are OEM from IPF.

Interesting, the 35XT is a D1S ballast...I did not know IPF used that technology. I would mount them in the fenders, or in the ARB bumper in a sealed box. It's not impossible to seal the 35XT, but it would be easier to mount it in a box. You could also retrofit the bulb holder to accept a D2S Bulb (same socket, just adding bulb clips) and loose the separate ignitor, and ballast. You can also run aftermarket 55W waterproof ballasts with a D2S setup.

 

[watchknut]

I got a pair of IPF 900XS for a song on eBay, but they did not come with the ballasts, so I ordered the Osram 35XT D1S (I confirmed with ARB that was the correct ballast) and ARB sent me connectors and ballast holders.
I did not want to mess with changing up the ballasts and connectors. How would I go about sealing them in a box? Also, what do mean be mount them in the fenders? I am a greenhorn so any help is great.

 

[Mxndrnks]

Pull the corner lights. There is enough room behind there inside the fender.

 

[2000UZJ]

Pull the corner lights. There is enough room behind there inside the fender.

This....except the D1S ballast has two modules. So it has to be mounted within 12" to reach the igniter on the bulb. Any type of Tupperware container with holes cutout for the cables will work. Paint it black and apply silicone to the holes. Make sure to secure the ballast inside the container with some sort of epoxy.

 

[watchknut]

Great idea with the Tupperware, I will let you know how it turns out.