Mechanical Headlamp Aiming Procedure (Optional)

Figure 3

The headlamps must be aimed for proper illumination of the road. Headlamp aim should be checked: when a new assembly is installed; or if service or repairs to the front end area have (or may have) disturbed the headlamps or their mountings.

Headlamp focus is set when the unit is made; no adjustment for focus is necessary or possible.

Some state and local laws specify requirements for headlamp aim; these laws must be followed.

1. Prepare the vehicle.

A. Make sure all other components are in place, if other service has been done on the vehicle.

B. Place the vehicle on a level surface.


C. Stop all other work on the vehicle.

D. Make sure the vehicle has 1/2 tank of fuel or less.

E. Deflate any manual air shocks.

F. Be sure tires are inflated to the proper air pressure.

G. If the vehicle regularly carries heavy loads or tows a trailer, these loads (or an equivalent amount of weight) should be installed.

2. If the floor is not level, adjust the aimers for floor slope.

3. Select the proper adapter.

4. Set the adjustment rods to the numbers shown on the front of the headlamp capsule.

5. Attach adapter to the aimer.

6. Attach the aimers to the headlamp capsule, making sure the adjustment rods are contacting the aiming pads.

7. Aim headlamps according to the aiming tool manufacturer's instructions.

Horizontal aim is done by an adjusting screw on the outer side of the headlamp assembly. Vertical aim is done by an adjusting screw in the top center of the assembly.