Replacing hood hinges

[fshd4it]

'74 Duster, and I want to replace the fiberglass hood with a stock steel one. There aren't any springs on the hinges, just a prop rod to hold the hood up. Is there any way to swap out the hinges without removing the fenders?

 

[doug 371]

some have had success by removing the splash shields

 

[fshd4it]

And pulling them out the bottom? Thanks, I'll pull the shields and have a look.

 

[doug 371]

yes

 

[Syleng1]

Ugly job even with the fenders and doors off. Watch your fingers for sure and GOD bless and say your prayers on that one.

 

[fshd4it]

I kinda figured it'll be a PITA. Too bad they couldn't be in the engine bay like the B&E bodies, but that would be too easy. Plan has changed a bit, but not much... I just looked at the hinges, and all they did was pop the springs loose. So even though I'll have to take them out, at least I don't have to go hunting for another pair.

 

[retroron]

Use gas springs instead of the springs. For a steel hood I used 180 gas springs 15 in over all length 5 in stroke.

 

[fshd4it]

I was reading the thread about that the other day, actually. I think I'll try it on my '64 Barracuda so I can get rid of the torsion springs, but not this one. It's had enough attention already.