I have to weld a spot on my hood and would like to know how to get the left side/whole thing off! There must be an easy way. I see (2) chrome rivits holding the front loop in the center.

Thanks Steve

You must spread the radiator shell from the cowl. To do this you must remove the bolt at the front of the "V" structure at the radiator end or remove the nuts from inside the car on the "V" thingy. Spread them apart just enough for the end of the rod to come out of the strap at the front and back.

Gotcha! Makes sense to me now.

Thanks Steve

Don't even think about removing the nuts from the cowl side of the "V" support. It is too tough and not necessary. Just loosen the top radiator hose clamp and hose from the inlet pipe. As long as the hose will slip out it is ok. Will need to drain a couple of quarts from the cooling system. Then remove the nut and washers from the bolt in the center of the "V" at the top of the radiator support. It is best to have two people but can be done by one. With a person on each side, raise the hood sides until you can get your hands between the sides, radiator and cowl. One person take one hand and push the radiator forward while removing the end of the center rod from the retainer. Once above the radiator you can move the hand back to the side of the hood allowing the center rod to rest on the outside of the retainer. Now both lift the sides up while moving the hood slightly forward to remove the back of the center rod from the retainer at the cowl. Once free then raise the hood sides straight up until you clear the headlights and then walk it forward until clear of the car. If you set it down with the back side down and partially open it will stand up. A piece of cardboard, carpet or other soft material will protect the paint.

If you want to remove the rods. Tap the rods toward the back side of the hood (some hoods have in interference going forward) until you can get a drill (or for you southerners "drill motor"). Chuck up the rod and slowly turn the rod as you pull it out. You will need to have an assistant or sawhorse or other support for the hood. I use a blanket between the hood sides and lay it on another soft surface. Once the rod is nearly removed then you can un-hook the drill from the rod and then remove the last bit of rod. Or if stable just pull the rod all the way out. Putting it back in the same way also works. Be sure to put lubricant on the rod and loops first.