The instructions recommend...
The instructions recommend replacing one hinge at a time. We removed the driver-side hinge assembly since it maintains the side-to-side hood alignment and should be installed first.
Wouldn't it be nice if you could remove the hood of your Corvette without adjusting the position each time? American Freedom Products now offers a set of hood hinges that allow hood removal with the pull of a lever. The hinges bolt in the stock location, and once adjusted properly, never need adjusting for hood removal or replacement.
Having the hood out of the way can make any underhood chore easier. Clean debris and grime from the radiator and A/C condenser; remove a headlight vacuum actuator, a procedure which can easily scratch the hood.
The hinges are stamped of heavier gauge steel to prevent flexing, and they're made with stainless pivot pins to allow repeatable precise hood fit. They have precision components so the fit should remain correct barring any front-end accident.
The new hinges are available in black zinc coat at $179.95, or chrome for $294.95. Although more expensive than a set of used swap-meet hinges, installation and adjustments are easy.
For Project Shark Attack, we chose black zinc hinges to match our dark gray metallic underhood.
This is where you may need...
This is where you may need a shoulder to lean on. While removing the hood hinge bolts, we rest the mid section of the hood on Chris' shoulder to keep weight off the hinge. Although the hood prop is disconnected in this photo, it's not necessary until the hinges are in place.
Now install the new detachable...
Now install the new detachable hood hinge in place of the old hinge. A shim was required under the new hinge because of its precision-fit stainless steel hinge pin. The old hinge had plenty of slop in the hinge-pin area, allowing unwanted movement.
The passenger-side hinge is...
The passenger-side hinge is simple and also has a precision-fit, stainless steel hinge pin. The pin has been rounded on the outside, easing installation of the receiving end of the hood hinge, and the original hardware can be reused.
Once installed, the hood should...
Once installed, the hood should come off with a simple pull of the release lever. Although you still must unbolt the hood prop and disconnect the underhood light if equipped, the task is much easier. The biggest advantage is, once the hood is positioned properly, no more hinge adjustment is necessary, relieving hours of frustration.
Project Shark Attack's hood...
Project Shark Attack's hood is off and ready for cleaning or waxing. The black, zinc-coated hinges match our gray and red color scheme, but they also come in chrome for some added "bling."
The radiator and A/C condenser...
The radiator and A/C condenser area can be cleaned easily; the headlight vacuum system is now easily accessible, preventing scratches to the top of the hood; if any radiator or water pump work is necessary, the front of the car can be wide open.