How to Adjust Freightliner Headlights
by Alibaster SmithThe headlights on a freightliner truck can typically be adjusted using a vertical adjustment screw. The lateral position of the headlights is typically fixed. Whenever you replace the headlights on a freightliner, adjust the headlight beam so that your headlights shine far enough down the road that you can see 20 feet in front of you. Unfortunately, because freightliner trucks sit so high off the ground, the headlights will naturally be aimed quite high, which might impair the vision of oncoming traffic, but there is not much you can do about that.
Step 1
Park your freightliner truck facing a wall. Make sure that the headlights are positioned 25 feet away from the wall.
Step 2
Turn on the headlights. Open the hood.
Step 3
Look on the backside of the headlight housing. Typically, there is a black or white plastic adjustment screw.
Step 4
Turn the adjustment screw with either a Torx head screwdriver or a cross-point screwdriver (the exact type of screwdriver you need will vary according to what kind of freightliner it is). Turn the adjustment screw until the headlight beam shines toward the bottom of the wall. The headlight beam should touch the bottom of the wall where the wall meets the ground from 25 feet away.
References
- "Bumper to Bumper: The Complete Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations"; Mike Byrnes & Associates, Inc.; 4 edition; 2003
- "Motor Heavy Truck Repair Manual;" Motor Publications, Edmunds; 2008
Things You'll Need
- Torx head screwdriver (if needed)
- Cross-point screwdriver (if needed)
Writer Bio
I am a Registered Financial Consultant with 6 years experience in the financial services industry. I am trained in the financial planning process, with an emphasis in life insurance and annuity contracts. I have written for Demand Studios since 2009.
