What are the molded bumps on headlight lenses?

[CTD12V]

This may not be exactly the right section of the forums to ask, but here goes . . .



I am thinking about using one of those headlight restore kits to take the cloudy crud off my headlights, but it looks like those stupid little protrusions molded into the lenses will cause problems getting a uniform finish around the edges. So . . .



What are those little bumps for? The only thing I found mentioned on a Google search is that they are supposed to be for aiming the headlights. Huh?? The FSM says to project the beams on a flat surface ~25ft away, measuring the bright spot, etc. What do those protrusions have to do with that?



Anyways, can I use a Dremel tool or something to grind them flush with the rest of the lens? Has anyone else had any problems by doing this?



Thanks,



CTD12V

 

[DieselDoghouse]

I believe there are 2 methods for aiming - projection screen 25' away, level truck. This is what I do using my trusty craftsman electronic tape measure and laser level. Alternately shops have a transiting device that sits on those bumps and once corrected for 'level' (or if the truck isn't) calculate the downangle for the headlights. This method can be done in broad daylight without lights on. Bottom line you can grind off the bumps but you will be stuck with projection aiming only.

 

[Matt400]

They are there for the use of this kind of aimer-

American Aimers: Manufacturers of the Hoppy Headlight Aimers



Now days we use a Photometric aimer cuz those dimples are no longer there on newer vehicles. American Aimers: Manufacturers of the Hoppy Headlight Aimers



The Photometric aimers will do your lamps without the need for those bumps.

 

[CTD12V]

Ahh, I see--thanks for enlightening me! I guess I will take them off unless anybody has any advice otherwise.



Thanks!



CTD12V

 

[BrettMiller]

Try some Brasso on the headlights. It takes some rubbing but works well to take the dull weathered film off plastic headlights.