This a hood spring or hood hinge issue?

[Grim 82]

I believe the brace would be most useful as a preventative maintenance item. If you get the hinges working properly it may not be an issue, but if it has been that way for quite some time it may already have developed a weak spot in the hood.

[78 Chevyrado]

I can't remember where I got my hinges at.  They were NOS, and they were about $60 each.  Just hunt around for a 73-80 NOS hood hinge.  They're still around.


If you want something to try, you could enlarge the adjustment slots where the hinge bolts to the fender so you can adjust them even further.  It might not  work, but seems to be worth a try.

[devanray]

I know I can get them new for $40 a pop but I think I'll try to rebuild first for $20 total and see what happens. When I get the hinges right I'll then be able to evaluate the hood a bit better and see if I need the braces, unless the springs are bad. Got so many things on my C 10 to-do list that braces are way down, the hinge rebuild creeps up the list due to its low cost and simple curiosity as to if I can do it. 

Also with the brace kit, it just seems like a strip of steel and not much else. I'll have to see if I can find a pic of one installed and see if it has more to do with it than just a simple flat piece of metal.

[78 Chevyrado]

IMO, If the hood hinges are really good and kept well oiled, and you also ONLY EVER shut the hood from the front and center, you'll never need the hood braces.

[devanray]

Yeah, I looked into what the brace was and even Mr. Gasket makes some so theres really nothing to them. Its only for those that already have the issue since most people would never lube the hinges, I've never even thought of the idea until now. If I ever needed them I would propably look at 5 - 6 dollars for the steel, 30 minutes of cutting and drilling and another 30 for install and bang!

I still hope that when I get the hinges done I wont need them, the hood edges look straight as it sits now but we'll see.

I will certainly take pics and notes as I go, probably wont happen for awhile though, but when it does I'll post the results.

I'm still going to try the metal hose clamp on the springs idea, just to see what happens. I'll were safety goggles. 

[1980c10]

I have the hood braces(not installed yet). they extend from the hinges forward down each side until maybe a foot from the front of the hood. I got them as I sometimes show my truck with the hood open and if I walk around I know a gust of wind won't destroy it. Also overtime I imagine the hood would get a slight bend to it no matter how careful I am.