Before you begin:
* Park on a level surface: This is crucial for accurate adjustment. Ideally, park against a wall about 25 feet away.
* Turn on your headlights: You need to see the beam pattern.
* Consult your owner's manual: This is your best source of information specific to your truck. It will show diagrams and explain the process in detail.
General Procedure (This may not be exactly accurate for your specific model, use your owner's manual as the primary guide):
1. Locate the adjustment screws: These are usually located on the back of the headlight housing. You'll likely need to access them from the engine compartment. They are typically small screws with either a Phillips or flathead head. There will be two screws per headlight:
* Vertical adjustment: Controls the up-and-down aiming.
* Horizontal adjustment: Controls the left-and-right aiming.
2. Identify the screws: Often, there are markings or even diagrams stamped onto the headlight housing near the adjustment screws to indicate which screw controls which direction.
3. Adjust the headlights: Use a small screwdriver to carefully turn the screws. Small adjustments make a big difference. Generally:
* Turning a screw clockwise usually raises or moves the beam to the right.
* Turning a screw counter-clockwise usually lowers or moves the beam to the left.
4. Check the beam pattern: After each adjustment, turn on your headlights and check the pattern on the wall. You want the beams to be level and aimed slightly downward to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. The cutoff line (the horizontal line where the beam's intensity sharply decreases) should be roughly parallel to the ground. Some aiming guides are available online to help visualize the ideal beam pattern.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4: Make small adjustments until the headlights are aimed correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Sealed Beam vs. Composite Headlights: Sealed beam headlights are a single unit, while composite headlights have separate bulbs and reflectors. Adjustment may be slightly different depending on the type you have.
* Difficulty of Access: Depending on your Dakota's configuration, reaching the adjustment screws may be challenging. You might need to use tools like extensions or a swivel head to reach them.
* Professional Help: If you're unsure about any part of this process, it's always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for headlight adjustment. Improper adjustment can be dangerous.
Remember, the information above is general guidance. Always refer to your 1996 Dodge Dakota owner's manual for the precise instructions and diagrams specific to your vehicle.
