Step down Hood Springs-what's the trick?

RL Chilton

I can see a lot of dangerous ways of putting the hood springs onto the hinges, but surely there has to be a smart way of doing it. What's the secret?

Glowplug

I am by no means an experienced person in this task so went to the INTERNET for what the others are doing. The following link shows how to do what you want and how to make the tool to do it,

hotrodders.com/forum/basics-basics-hood-hinge-spring-removal-installation-148671.html

hoggyrubber

i used channel locks to remove and install mine. i just grabbed on and pulled it enough to unhook it and them pulled it enough to hook it back up. i didn't think it was that dangerous as long as i had a good grip on the spring. i would hate to try to pry off. the hinges on my hornet were frozen in the upright position and i had to remove them to free them up.

RL Chilton

It's also been suggested that I try the hook on the end of a brake tool. I'm going to give that a try this evening.

SuperDave

I have been trying to remember how I did it just a few months ago.. All I can recall, was that I had them firmly clamped in my large bench vice. Yesterday, Among all the clutter, I found my brake tool on the work bench near the vice. Maybe that's what I used. At least.. I still have all my teeth if not my mind.

[Deleted User]

I like using vice grips because once they are closed and locked they maintain the clamping force. With channel locks you have to consciously keep focused on the force you are applying or you are apt to lighten up on the force and accidentally release the spring.
With vice grips that are locked you can then concentrate on moving the spring into place.

Chris Smith

The brake spring tool is what worked for me on the hudson. On my fords I used an old v belt.

TwinH

Here's a slick one for early 50's GM's

chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/miscellaneous/hoodspring.htm

RL Chilton

The step-down springs are pretty small, just really strong. I had luck with the brake tool with the hinge in the down position. After the spring was installed, I raised the hinge up to the upright postition awaiting the hood.

Thanks for everyone's advice.