The_Oz

Well,

I was thinking of providing steps for brake bleeding, but I completely fudged one of the bleeder screws So, off to the shop for that. Instead, I opted for something very simple for now. If all goes well, I plan on submitting these at least once a month. Anyway, on with the show.

Task: Headlight Adjustment
Cars Applicable: 95-98 Protege (All trim levels)
Level: Easy
Tools required: Phillips Screwdriver #2, A friend (optional, the opposite sex is always a plus... )

Step 1

Before tampering with the headlight adjustment, make sure you have met the following requirements:

- Gas Tank at full.
- Tire Pressures are correct (32psi. all around for 185/65/14s)
- No excess weight in the car (spare tire and jack are considered part of the car). If you have a big sub (for example), that's okay too, since it is now part of the car
- Sprint/Struts are in good condition.
- Car is parked on a flat level surface.

Step 2

Rock the car several times (as per the factory owner's manual). If you have a friend, either have him/her adjust the lights while you sit in the driver's seat, or vice versa. If not, the driver side headlight will be pointing down a bit, so compensate accordingly.

Step 3

If you read your owner's manual, it says to ensure that both level gauges should be at zero with minimal tolerances. And if it is not within specifications, it is recommended for you to take it to the dealer....uhuh

Anyway, let's start with the horizontal adjustment (left and right). Refer to the picture below:


The headlight on the pic is my driver's side headlight. The level gauge is marked by a blue arrow. The red arrow points to the screw that will adjust horizontal movement of the headlight. With the screwdriver, turn the screw until the level gauge is at zero (as per the factory owner's manual). NOTE: When looking at the gauge, make sure you are looking directly above it, NOT on an angle.

Step 4

For vertical adjustment (up and down), refer to the pic below:


Again, this is my driver's side headlight. The blue arrow marks the level gauge, and the red arrow marks the screw for adjustment. Turn the screw until the bubble is level with zero (as per the factory owner's manual). Again, look directly above the gauge, and not on an angle.

Step 5

Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the other headlight.

Step 6

Rock, the car several times again, and check your work. Re-adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

If you have a non-factory suspension setup, you will have to adjust accordingly. Please be aware, that if you're too low, or too high, chances are your beam pattern will not be as efficient as stock. But don't let that discourage you, that's just my thought.

This Protege tip can be revised accordingly. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at the_oz@hotmail.com or post a reply here. If you're emailing me, please include in the subject line "Protege Headlight Adjustment", because I get a lot of junk e-mail.

Comments good or bad are always welcome, but I encourage you to be constructive, please

Regards,

Oz

Bruce95fmla

your a 100% right, now i know where you get some 80 watt bulbs for 14-20 bucks
Bruce