Tilt Forward Hood Install - Ecocat Receives A Nose Job

By simply using two pieces of 1 1/2-inch square tubing with 1/8-inch flat stock for the base, Lance fabricated this latch stand to extend the cowl support. The tubing is notched to make room for the Watson's StreetWorks latching mechanism.

In order to keep the hood gap nice and straight, the Watson's StreetWorks latches were mounted along the sides of the cowl. Lance used the mighty Sawzall to cut through the cowl for access and room for the striker mount.

A couple of holes were drilled to attach the base of the latch stand to the body sill.

Lance fabricated the latch stand to attach to the existing cowl support structure.

After attaching the latch to the stand, Lance installed the cable.

The striker mount contains 12-gauge flat stock steel shaped to the contour of the sides of the nose, and a second piece tack welded to it that mounts the striker for the hidden latch.

For added strength, the striker mount was used to create templates for the side of the piece.

Lance welded the sides to the striker mount.

He then ground the excess weld material smooth.

In preparation to attach the striker mount to the nose, Nelson Custom Paint smoothed both sides of the nose.

As strong as a weld, Fusor 147 was used to attach the striker mount to the nose. This product has been a lifesaver! Used over and over again, it is essential for any fiberglass replica build.

Fusor 147 was applied to the mounting area and then brushed evenly over the surface. A thin coat was also applied to the striker mount.

Lance previously measured and test fitted the striker mount with the latches in place. He then drilled two locator holes in order to line up the piece perfectly when attached. Clamps held the striker mount fast for the 24-hour bonding period.

The much anticipated power bulge in the nose was measured out for necessary clearance of the Ecotech motor. The bulge will also give the hood a more aggressive performance appearance.

Nelson Custom Paint used X-30 expanding foam by Tap to create a mold for the power bulge.