[hamer82073]

I'm getting ready to install new hinges and putting my hood on a 69 Firebird. Can anybody go through the proper procedure and order I should follow?

[daves57]

i installed the hinges then the hood very carefully so not to scratch align and adjust, two people make it easier,

[hamer82073]

Did you install it without the hood latch at first? Do you think it helps not to have the batwing and front bumper on when starting so they don't interfere?

[A Schab]

I've always installed the latch and striker last,and had the hood filler in place before putting the hood on.

[daves57]

same here

[Dr. Drivability]

One thing I did was to leave the bolts that secure the latch a bit loose, that way when you close the hood it will align into the catch perfectly...makes a big difference on ease of opening. Once you're happy with the hood fit, carefully open the hood as to not disturb the latch alignment and then tighten the bolts down.

Worked for me...

[hamer82073]

Finally figured out why my hood never fit right. The body shop had the front batwing pulled so far forward and had it shimmed so high it was stopping the hood from dropping down all the way in the front. Took off the side rubber bumbers, swapped hinges and got the hood dialed in. Then worked the batwing and headlight surrounds off of that. I used everyones tips here with the latch loose but in place. Amazing how things work out better when you do them yourself sometimes. Thanks for everyone's help.