Headlight Adjustment

[Ralph Pearce]

Unsurprisingly, now that I'm starting to drive the old '48, I'm finding a number of items that need addressing. One item that I've been trying to figure out is the adjustment of the headlights. Following some simple instructions, I've marked on a wall where my headlights should be aimed at 15 feet away.  I've located the adjusting screws, but can't get the lights to aim high enough.  Any thoughts?

[greg g]

you can buy new adjusting screws and associated hard ware in the Help section of the auto parts store.  Are the screws turning and moving or are they also turning the retaining nut and not moving?  Have you tried loosening the horizontal adjuster to take strain off the assembly?  Can you shim the bottom of the head lamp bucket where the bottom attaches to the fender?

[Desotodav]

They should lift high enough Ralph.

The headlight adjusters have a brass fitting which fits into a slot in the headlight bucket (see photo). I agree with Greg that you should check that the brass fitting (and also the recessed part near the head of the bolt) are sitting in their correct places and are not just spinning when you turn the bolt.

Not sure whether you had a manual so I've also attached the relevant pages...

[Ralph Pearce]

Thanks guys.  Everything appears to be as it should be.  In reading over the section in the shop manual, I'm seeing that the adjustment should be made with the high beams "on."  Hmm, that would make a bit of a difference...

[48Dodger]

Holy Cow Ralph......driving it to the BBQ this year???

 

 

48D

[Ralph Pearce]

Holy Cow Ralph......driving it to the BBQ this year???

 

 

48D

Just might happen, though I understand 55-60mph is about tops for this 4:1 rearend.  I got her running in June, and it's now street legal with plates and everything. Was able to get DMV to switch over from using the engine # (old Washington pink slip) to the frame # for VIN (just in case she needs a transplant someday).