[me_focused]

... The latch is too short by about 1/8th of an inch. The latching mechanism doesn't allow for any adjustment. Any ideas on how to remedy this? I would like to avoid hood pins as much as possible. Also, what's a good way to keep the washer nozzles from falling out? I was thinkg hot glue, but wanted ideas first. Thanks a bunch!

 

[me_focused]

Thanks for the replies!

CaptainStock19: Yes, I removed the bumpers. When I try to force-latch the hood, I can hear the latch hit the mechanism, but it won't grab it. Also, the front of the hood kind bends down some just to try to get it all the way in. I'm stumped.

S2: The latch is not adjustable at all. As for the nozzles, I wasw thinking hot glue. Dunno if that would damage anything or not.

I may take the hood to a body shop and have them install the hood with hood pins. Don't want to go that route, but will if there is no other choice.

Thanks again! Other ideas are more than welcome.

 

[me_focused]

Thanks again for the help.

Pony: Pics would be a big help.

focusin: No, they welded (or whatever) the latch to the hood.

Also, I noticed after I installed it, it seemed a little lop-sided. When facing the car, the hood wants to hug the left fender, but leaves like a ¼" gap on the right side. How do I fix that?

I used a lot of pressure to push the hood down into the latch. I was hitting the inside of the latch, but it wouldn't hold on. I even tried sitting on it. Still wouldn't latch. But as soon as I got the stock hood back on, it latched. I'm stumped.

 

[me_focused]

I wish I could have bought it locally. No, I got it from Andy's Autosports (a big problem retailer). I wish to never do business with them again.

 

[me_focused]

I've decided that adjusting the latch mechanism is the best way to go. Now, my Dad and I tried to remove the mechanism, but the space topside is too small for fingers and wrenches to work properly. Is there a way to get to it from the bottom side??? Basically, all I am going to do is, remove the mechanism, make the mounting holes on the mechanism oblong to allow up/down movement, and reinstall. Simple as that, but the way Ford put it in is a pain.

Thanks again!

 

[me_focused]

IT'S ON!!!!!!!!

Spent this afternoon putting it on. FInally got it to latch. The latching mechanism is adjustable if you break off the 2 plastic tabs holding it in one spot. Once I moved it as high as it would go, the hood latched!!! I'm am VERY HAPPY with this hood!! I'm gonna try to get pics of it later in the week.

Thanks for everyones help!