How to properly align US ellipsoids?

[Jand3rson]

The US ellips on my wife's 89 325i are REALLY out of alignment, so much that it's hard to see at night. I know you use the little adjusters on the units themselves, but how to you align them to the right height and spread pattern?

[bimmerphile]

If you're referring to the visual method for doing it against a wall, you can't with US ellips. That aiming method only works for e-code lights.

Notice the 3 little dimples on the front of the lens? Thats what they're for. A little nifty machine of some sort.

So, that's the right way to have them done.


now the r3v way:

http://www.danielsternlighting.com/images/Aim.pdf

[Jand3rson]

Awesome article. Thanks, Kris.

[parkerbink]

That artical worked great for me when I got my Euro ellipsoids.

[hamann318is]

That artical worked great for me when I got my Euro ellipsoids.

Yes it did. Made a world of difference with my euro ellips.

[bimmerphile]

and it would for your euro ellips...they're E-code headlights.


that article will NOT properly aim US ellipsoids, because you can't properly aim US ellipsoids by eye.

[hamann318is]

and it would for your euro ellips...they're E-code headlights.


that article will NOT properly aim US ellipsoids, because you can't properly aim US ellipsoids by eye.

Yes, but that article does a good job of trying to help you align those headlights to the best of your ability. It is better than nothing. ;)

[Jand3rson]

that article will NOT properly aim US ellipsoids, because you can't properly aim US ellipsoids by eye.

Anything is better than where they are right now. The left and right beams are completely out of line from each other, it's hard to see at night.

[bimmer8604]

any idea on how much it would cost to get your us ellips properly aimed? Maybe either from dealership( i doubt it) or another shop?

Kyle

[KenC]

any idea on how much it would cost to get your us ellips properly aimed? Maybe either from dealership( i doubt it) or another shop?

Kyle

My guess is one hour labor.

[bimmer8604]

any idea on how much it would cost to get your us ellips properly aimed? Maybe either from dealership( i doubt it) or another shop?

Kyle

My guess is one hour labor.

So with my dealer discount, thatd prob run me around 70 bucks. not worth it imo.

Kyle

[Snow]

My local shop quoted me $44. I am considering it, as my adjustment screws are all rusty, my hood won't pop, and I don't have time to do it myself.