Hood pop up spring question

[uncleaud]

When I pull the hood release cable inside the car the latch releases but the hood doesn't pop up enough get my fingers under to reach the safety catch. I have to use a big screw driver or bar to pop it up. From that point on everything seems to work as it should. I'm wondering if there is a helper spring missing or if it is just the nature of the beast. Car is 1947 Chrysler Saratoga BTW.

[joecoozie]

++

Edited July 5, 2023 by joecoozie
not useful

[Sam Buchanan]

1 hour ago, uncleaud said:

When I pull the hood release cable inside the car the latch releases but the hood doesn't pop up enough get my fingers under to reach the safety catch. I have to use a big screw driver or bar to pop it up. From that point on everything seems to work as it should. I'm wondering if there is a helper spring missing or if it is just the nature of the beast. Car is 1947 Chrysler Saratoga BTW.

 

Have you checked the condition of the release spring? Maybe it needs to be replaced or shimmed?

 

The latch pin is adjustable.

 

Edited July 4, 2023 by Sam Buchanan

[uncleaud]

5 hours ago, Sam Buchanan said:

 

Have you checked the condition of the release spring? Maybe it needs to be replaced or shimmed?

 

The latch pin is adjustable.

 

I went out to check the condition of the release spring and surprise, surprise!! There is no release spring! or any assembly on the hood. All that has been holding it down is the latch, the safety latch and the shear weight of the hood. I guess I need to find a good hood to rob parts from? Thanks Sam.

[Jerry Roberts]

Hardware stores and home centers usually have a good selection of springs . 

[Dodgeb4ya]

1946-48 C39 Chryslers don't have a hood that just pops up using a spring.

The hood latch uses a cam that forces the hood up about a 1/2" when the jood and latch is adjusted correctly.

The hood cannot fit too tight into the fenders either or it will require a lot of efgort to pull the hood release handle which can end badly...broken hood cable! Not a simple fix at all.

[uncleaud]

Thanks Dodgeb4ya. That looks more like what I have. Where can I find Info on correct adjustment?

[joecoozie]

2 hours ago, uncleaud said:

Thanks Dodgeb4ya. That looks more like what I have. Where can I find Info on correct adjustment?

Shop Manual - pages 266-268