1962 Hood Release issues

[David R.]

The hood release on my '62 works just fine to open the hood - the handle pulls out fairly easily and the hood releases easily on both sides and pops up. However, I always have to manually push the handle back in or the hood won't latch when I close it. The handle doesn't retract at all after the hood releases. I have visually inspected everything and it looks like it's routed correctly, and I tried lubricating it. No change. Possible causes? Thanks in advance . . .

[Frank D.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

The hood release on my '62 works just fine to open the hood - the handle pulls out fairly easily and the hood releases easily on both sides and pops up. However, I always have to manually push the handle back in or the hood won't latch when I close it. The handle doesn't retract at all after the hood releases. I have visually inspected everything and it looks like it's routed correctly, and I tried lubricating it. No change. Possible causes? Thanks in advance . . .

Is it a reproduction handle and cable ?

[David R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

No, not reproduction.

[Terry D.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

Are you sure it is suppose to?

[David R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

All of them I've seen do retract after pulling them and don't require pushing back in.

[Dennis C.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

Typically, if the cable routing is done without a bind or bend and the return springs are in good condition, then there is usually rust or corrosion between the inner wire and the outer cable. This indicates it is time for a rebuild.

[David R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

Thanks, Dennis. The release handle seems to push back in pretty easily, without any binding that I can feel. Bad return spring(s), maybe?

[Dennis C.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

Thanks, Dennis. The release handle seems to push back in pretty easily, without any binding that I can feel. Bad return spring(s), maybe?

It is easy to try a new spring from the hardware store to see if it makes a difference and then go from there.

[David R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

Yeah, that's my plan. I'll be at Carlisle tomorrow, maybe i'll just pick up a couple of springs while I'm there.

[Tony R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

And maybe some cable lubrication?

[David R.]

Re: 1962 Hood Release issues

As I've said, the cable seems to move OK both ways - no binding at all. I have sprayed WD-40 (I know, I know - that's a solvent, not an oil) the length of the cable a few times over the years and it doesn't seem to do much - the cable worked OK before & after. I'll give it another shot at lubrication, though, after I swap in some new springs. What's everyone's favorite choice for lubricating the hood cable all along its length?