It is way pass due for me to install the hood springs on the 48.Many of you have done this,I could really use a step by step proceedure.If I use the washer method I gain about 3/4 of an inch in length,I'm sure I will still struggle with the screw driver getting it on the brace.I did make a test with just the springs as is...no way,chef-

Sounds like you might want to use some thicker washers or use 2 washers between each coil.
One tip if you go that route though. After you get the washers in place, thread a piece of string through the holes and tie the ends together. Beats chasing washers all over the floor..

I do have another method I prefer described in this thread.

http://vccachat.org/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=4;t=000056

Luck!

Am I to understand with enough washers I should be able to clear or almost clear the attaching brace?when I tested this on an old spring I did not put washers in every coil.chef-

Yes. If you start out with a 4 inch stack of washers and install them down both sides of the spring, you will extend the spring by 2 inches which should be enough to allow you to install the spring in the car.

I've tried it with some washers for 3/4" bolts I had left over from building the shop. They're about an eighth inch thick and worked great.

Then just lower the hood about half way to stretch the spring enough to let all the washers fall out. See previous note about string..

After doing some measuring the clearance to put the spring on the hinge arm is not much more then the 8 inch spring and when stretched there is no way the spring will clear as needed to go on the arm.I must guess the lower hinge arm must be un-bolted spring attached and arm bolted back??Is this correct??chef-

I used the come along method as Project 48 had described in the previous thread,worked like a cham!I ran the strap underneath the radiator and to a come along which was attached to a 4 by 4 at the bottom,outside the garage door .The angle was perfect and with a little downwards pressure the spring slipped right in, thanks for the idea!chef-

CONGRATULATIONS CHEF

That by far is one of the HARDEST jobs to get done!!!

How far along are you on the 48???


Fleet47

Old philosophy of mine..

Give the hardest job to the laziest person and he'll find the easiest way to do it..

Yes I would say the comealong method is the easiest..let the tolls do the work!..
My hood although ended up a bit missaligned ,the drives side front sits a bit to the left on the fender although all the other adjustment points are well aligned...Glad I know now how to easily remove the springs
Fleetmas47..all the 48 needs now is interior chef-

Chef, maybe you can put a buffet bar in the rear seat!

No the Buffet Bar goes in the Tear Drop Trailer I'm Restoring chef-

Ok Chef, just so you don't leave for Grand Junction in 2006 without one!