Looking for headlight adjustment tool

[rjohnson7581]

I've been on the search for a headlight adjustment tool and cannot find what I'm looking for. I bought new aftermarket headlights and the adjustment screw is rear facing. It fits either a Phillips screwdriver or 8mm socket. I can't get to the screw from the panel above the tire and can't get in through the hole under the hood. Only way I found to adjust them is remove the assembly to turn the screw. It's a hassle to keep removing the assembly to adjust. Is there a tool that would fit? Just curious if anyone else has similar headlights and found an easier way. Only thing I found was a tool for Ford but it's 4mm.

 

[Wild one]

I've been on the search for a headlight adjustment tool and cannot find what I'm looking for. I bought new aftermarket headlights and the adjustment screw is rear facing. It fits either a Phillips screwdriver or 8mm socket. I can't get to the screw from the panel above the tire and can't get in through the hole under the hood. Only way I found to adjust them is remove the assembly to turn the screw. It's a hassle to keep removing the assembly to adjust. Is there a tool that would fit? Just curious if anyone else has similar headlights and found an easier way. Only thing I found was a tool for Ford but it's 4mm.

Wonder if a flexible socket extension would work.

Amazon.com

 

[rjohnson7581]

Wonder if a flexible socket extension would work.

Amazon.com

Thank you. I never actually thought about this. I might have to take a trip to Lowes or Home Depot to see if they have it. I also was looking at a swivel ratchet tool but didn't find it smaller than 3/4". This might actually be what I'll need.

 

[chopperman1]

Amazon.com

 

[rjohnson7581]

Amazon.com

Thank you, I'll have to look into this. Between this and the flexible extension, one of them is bound to work. I'll have to see if the hardware store carries this so I can get it tomorrow. If not, I can wait on Amazon.

 

[GTyankee]

I have not thought about it before
BUT, i wonder what access you would have by removing the Inner Fender, maybe 8 screws to pull it out ?




Maybe take off the tire, to get more room to work

 

[rjohnson7581]

I have not thought about it before
BUT, i wonder what access you would have by removing the Inner Fender, maybe 8 screws to pull it out ?

View attachment 550546
View attachment 550548

Maybe take off the tire, to get more room to work

I was thinking about doing that over the past weekend but didn't have the time. Worse case scenario, may have to do that if I don't find an easier way.

 

[crash68]

I bought new aftermarket headlights and the adjustment screw is rear facing.

Does the back of the adjustment screw look like it has teeth on it? Some of the aftermarket headlights you use a #2 Philips screwdriver inserted from the top behind the adjustment screw.

 

[04fxdwgi]

I use the screwdriver thing from a 1/4" ratchet set, an extension and the socket to reach adjuster from top of fender (through the adjuster hole). Then use electrical tape on the connection points so tools / parts don't vanish into the abyss.

They do make special long flex shaft adjuster tools, but I am cheap sometimes.

 

[rjohnson7581]

Does the back of the adjustment screw look like it has teeth on it? Some of the aftermarket headlights you use a #2 Philips screwdriver inserted from the top behind the adjustment screw.

Yes it does. I'll have to try and see if that works. I tried a torx bit but it was skipping and turning very slowly when it was catching. Might have to try different sizes until I get the right fit.

 

[rjohnson7581]

I use the screwdriver thing from a 1/4" ratchet set, an extension and the socket to reach adjuster from top of fender (through the adjuster hole). Then use electrical tape on the connection points so tools / parts don't vanish into the abyss.

They do make special long flex shaft adjuster tools, but I am cheap sometimes.

I'll have to look into this. I haven't had a chance to get to the store yet but maybe I can use something I already have.

 

[rjohnson7581]

Thank you, I'll have to look into this. Between this and the flexible extension, one of them is bound to work. I'll have to see if the hardware store carries this so I can get it tomorrow. If not, I can wait on Amazon.

Ended up checking this out and it says it's a little over 1" wide. The hole looks about 1/2" so I'll have to try a different option. Not sure if it would work from the panel below since I can't get a ratchet or screwdriver to go in straight to the screw.

 

[grizzstang]

Does the back of the adjustment screw look like it has teeth on it? Some of the aftermarket headlights you use a #2 Philips screwdriver inserted from the top behind the adjustment screw.

My AlphaRex aftermarket headlights are exactly like this.

I remember looking at the adjuster when I was putting them in wondering how the hell you supposed to adjust them. Turned out to be pretty easy.

You do need to be pretty careful of the teeth though, I think they are just tin.