Headlamp Aiming Procedure: Notes

2008 Chevrolet Chevy Express G2500, Van Cargo, 6.6 6SECTION Notes
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Yukon, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Align the left tires of the vehicle with the reference line extending from the screen with the headlamps aligned with the reference line.
  2. Remove any snow, ice or mud from the vehicle.
  3. The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while the headlamp aiming is being done.
  4. The vehicle should contain cargo or be loaded to represent normal vehicle use.
  5. Tires should be properly inflated.
  6. Rock the vehicle to stabilize the suspension.
  7. Measure from the floor to the center of the lamp bulb on the vehicle. Some lamps have an aim dot marked on the lens.
  8. At the screen, measure from the floor and place the horizontal tape at the measured distance.
  9. Measure from the reference line on the floor to the left headlamp bulb centerline.
  10. At the screen, measure from the reference line and place the vertical tape at the measured distance.
  11. Measure from the reference line on the floor to the right headlamp bulb centerline.
  12. At the screen, measure from the reference line and place the vertical tape at the measured distance.
  13. Turn the headlamps ON.
  14. Adjust the headlamps to the specifications required by state and local authorities.
    Fig 1: Aiming Headlamp Distance
    G01457591Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
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