[HWYSTR455]

There are a couple factors that causes this, others may have more info, so don't shoot the messenger.


Simple first. I had seen where some repop cowl seals are not correct (taller/thicker), and also made out of more dense foam. This prevents the hood from closing correctly in the rear. Over time, which is something that doesn't work with my OCD and patience, it does relax, almost enough to line up. Unsure entirely how long that might be, I never had waited, but did see some improvement in about a 2 year period.

Not so simple second. The hood bows from not properly closing the hood. It's imperative, the hinges are properly lubricated and adjusted, and you PUSH BACK THEN DOWN. By pushing on the forward lip of hood, while fully open, up (towards the sky), you can 'bow' it back.

Here's the rub. The more times you 'correct' it, the more the point of the leading edge of hinge, where it meets the hood, stresses, and, eventually it can crack. (ask me how I know)

This happens on many body styles, the longer the hood, the more susceptible.

Way I addressed the 'problem', is to weld an enforcement/brace running the length of the hinge, to the outer side of the hinge pad. I have done this with a number of cars, as have friends, using a piece of angle steel. If it's cleaned up properly, people rarely notice, unless they are looking for it.

Obviously, when adding the brace, you will have to repaint the hood, that's the kicker.


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