an improved adjustable mounting system for mounting a flat panel display to a surface . a mounting bracket is configured to attach to the surface , while an adapter bracket is operatively connected to the mounting bracket and is configured to operatively connect to the flat panel display . at least one carrier mechanism operatively connects the mounting bracket and the adapter bracket , the first carrier mechanism positioned with a set of substantially straight guide paths or surfaces to couple the adapter bracket to the mounting bracket . when the flat panel display is operatively connected to the adapter bracket and the mounting bracket is attached to the surface , the flat panel display is generally selectively rotatably positionable about an axis substantially parallel to the surface as a result of the interaction of the first carrier mechanism with the set of substantially straight guide paths or surfaces .