I need to replace a couple of lenses on my 1997 850 as they are sandblasted/opaque. I put ecode's on my Saab 9-5, and have been VERY happy with the improved lighting pattern. The only difference betweeen ecodes & dot in the saab is the lense.

I've been told by a reputable source that even though the lense w/exchange, the reflectors in the lamp housing are different for oem-dot and ecode lights on the 4 lamp 850 models, and the result w/not be the same as the euro ecode.

I'm wondering if anyone who's made the swap to ecodes can share any "real" data on the difference, and if they would do it again. I have to put something new on either way, but would rather not buy ecodes then dot.

thanks for your time...

m

The reflector is different for DOT lenses. When I put Ecode lenses on my car, I had to turn the lights down almost to the max, the little bubble in the level is all the way back. But they are perfect! Nice cut off, great light down the road.

Klaus

--
(1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

Klaus...I want a link for these E-Codes. Highly desired but can't find them. :(
--
1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.

I also got mine off of eBay (but only one). It came from a place with a website http://www.lampsandlenses.com [Frank's Foreign Auto in Orange, NJ (973)674-2254]

This site has 70 series lenses listed for $39.50 each, but I'm sure they are DOT. He got these E codes shipped to him by mistake, and just cleared them out. However, if you want a pair, tell him I will buy a passenger side, so maybe he can make a special order for us. These lenses are made by DJAUTO, not Hella. I don't know if that is a problem. Daniel Stern scoffs at them, but he also said that you couldn't use E code lenses with DOT reflectors. Klaus' experience proves otherwise.

BTW, there is no way that an 850 lense can be used on an S/V70. They are completely different shapes.

FCP Groton has the E-code lenses for $130.

I stumbled across mine on Ebay, FCPGroton was selling 2 pair a year ago. Next spring, when I sell my 70R, I will take the ecodes off and sell them on this board.
Just keep watching ebay. BTW, the 850 and 70 use the same lenses from 94-98.

Klaus
--
(1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

I agree with Klaus and the other .. the lenses really did make a difference and I too had to point them down a bit more than normal. found mine from the same sources as mentioned above and they were very easily installed. I still have the old lenses in storage ..for emergency use only! :)

Cheers

CJlomax