Installing headlight aimer on 2002 Ranger

[Stewie]

I noticed when I bought my 2002 Ranger that the passenger headlight was loose. I took a look and it looks like the attaching screw/headlight aiming adjustment has broken. I guess the previous owner just slipped a bolt on and had it wedged in. I can't move the bolt and I will have to cut it off to get the headlight out. I ordered the part, and I was wondering if anyone has replaced one of these before.
I have had nothing but good luck with the information that I received from you guys, and I am hoping that someone might shed some light on how to replace it. The light works and It is now "wedged" in to place but I would like to fix it..
Thanks in advance.

 

[Fx4wannabe01]

Depends on which alignment stud it is. Each one is different. Two of the three simply twist left a quarter turn and it's removed. As for the other one, I honestly don't remember proper removal(the inside lower one?????). The best way to adjust the bottom studs/bolts is by removing the headlamp and adjusting by hand with the stud and the plastic 'nut'.

 

[Stewie]

Yes it is the inside lower one. I bought the part but I will have to cut the existing one off with a hacksaw. Some one has put a bolt on it in place of the plastic nut and it is rusted solid, PB blast won't work on it. I don't want to damage the housing when I am cutting it. I guess in a pinch I could buy an aftermarket headlight if it is damaged. I just can't imagine why someone would try to jury rig this instead of buying the 8 dollar part to fix it.
I was wondering if there was a metal clip or something that held it onto the plastic housing?
Thanks for the reply.

 

[Fx4wannabe01]

Yeah.... aftermarket repops are of pretty good quality and a Ranger of your age usually has neglected headlights(they're pitting and are looking yellow). Aftermarkets are very affordable. Usually about $100-120 shipped and come with corners off eBay.

If I remember, I'll pop mine off and shoot you a pic of the studs. One of them has a plastic or sheet metal little clamp thing. That also happens to be the one that I can't remember the proper removal of(I think). lol.

 

[Stewie]

Thanks: any help is appreciated. It is sitting on there solid right now but IF I ever have to change the bulb I will have to cut it off. I am in the process of buffing out the scratches in the head lights with a 3M kit. So far the 1500 grit scratches are still showing but I have to hit it with the 3000 trizac yet. Then polish and buff. I think it will come out pretty clear after that. If not Repops here we come.