1959 Hood Pin Issues

[Tony M.]

Gentlemen,
This is probably not a new subject. My hood pins will not keep the hood shut. It seems the pins ridges have worn out. I saw a few members grinding large slots into the pins to engage.

Question: What side of the hood pin engages with the latch? I am asking to determine on which side to create the notches. Since I am consulting at a machine shop a few hours a week...maybe the deeper groove ridges would have been a better solution than the notches I created without success?? Not my finest moment!

Thanks again and have a great evening!
Tony Marra

[Richard M.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

Tony,

Try this.... Get a large tubing cutter for up to 1/2" copper pipe. Use it to re-cut the circular grooves in the pins.

Credits go to Tom Parsons for this idea many years ago.

Also check alignment. Wrap some aluminum foil over your female latches. Slowly lower the hood so the tip of the pins hits the foil. Adjust as needed to get them centered in the telltale foil.

Rich

[Tony M.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

Rich,
Great idea, I will try this morning. I will also remove one pin and figure out where it latches on to the pin. I'm not sure because the female end is angled???

Thanks again and have a great weekend!
Tony

[Dan H.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

On my 59, I would slightly loosen the female mounting bolts and let the hood shut, to center the pins, then open and snug the mounting bolts.

[Dan B.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

The female latch is angled to create an interference fit with the pin to hold the hood closed. The issue with them is when they wear the hole wallows out and won't hold the pin. Replacements are available and should solve your problem.

[Tony M.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

Dan,
Perfect and I will try that after I attempt the foil idea.

Thanks for your feedback!

A wonderful Father's day to all the dads!

[Tony M.]

Re: 1959 Hood Pin Issues

Dan,
I think that is exactly what is happening, especially on the right side!

Thanks and have a wonderful Sunday!