The Forward Look Network
The Forward Look Network
Search | Statistics | User Listing Forums | Chat | eBay | Calendars | Albums | Skins | Language
You are logged in as a guest. ( logon | register )

Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard
Jump to page : 1
Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page]
View previous thread :: View next thread
   Forward Look Technical Discussions -> Body, Glass, Interior and TrimMessage format
 
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-04 9:58 PM (#609505)
Subject: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
.
Dieter from Switzerland posted photos of a hood hinge removal device that he borrowed from Sven A. aka "Wizard". Sven was nice enough to send me photos of the device - basically a long coupling nut with 5/16" threaded rod in one end and a drilled out section and more 5/16" threaded rod and a washer and nut so you can add tension to the spring and lengthen the spring enough to get it off the OE hinge. At both ends Sven "cleaved" open the 5/16" rod to create a saddle into which the spring would sit.

I wasn't sure whether I could cleave any of the threaded rods that I had. I even thought that 5/16" might not be strong enough (based on my previous attempts shown here:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=67642&...

Initially I thought that the 7/16" x 14 rod that I had would be much better but I abandoned that idea at least for the top because of clearance issues. But I kept the 7/16" rod idea for the bottom.

I had some 5/16" x 24 rod and a 5/16" x 24 clevis from another project so I "adapted" the clevis to grab the top end of the spring. For the bottom, I used a 7/16" x 14 bolt with the head removed. I notched it to fit over the spring. For the middle piece, I bought a 6" length of 1/2" NPT threaded galvanized water pipe. I had high hopes.

Then I tried it on the "bench" and found that I would need some extra washers somewhere to lengthen the center section because at full crank (just when the top nut disappears into the spring), I was still about 1/2" too short. Not going to work. Hmm....

Then I disassembled my spring jack and took it out the car where I found out that my attempt was even worse than I thought. The notched, headless, 7/16" bolt is too fat to reach down to the spring and the body of the clevis prevents the notched clevis to contact the upper end of the spring.

So I call it Wizard 1 56D500boy 0 There was method in his 5/16" madness.

Tomorrow I will see if I can "cleave" some 5/16" rod open to make a spring-grabbing saddle (or two)

Photos from today's failed attempt at out-clevering a Wizard:





(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_TheComponents.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledAndFingerTight.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight_UpperEndMockUp.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight_LowerEndMockUp.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_Trial.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_UpperEndFail.jpg)



(DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_LowerEndFail.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_TheComponents.jpg (155KB - 178 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledAndFingerTight.jpg (131KB - 172 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight.jpg (128KB - 175 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight_UpperEndMockUp.jpg (127KB - 177 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledMaximumTight_LowerEndMockUp.jpg (136KB - 171 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_Trial.jpg (134KB - 180 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_UpperEndFail.jpg (138KB - 169 downloads)
Attachments DaveFsMarch2021AttemptAtImprovingWizardsHoodSpringJackDesign_ComponentsInstalledOnCar_LowerEndFail.jpg (148KB - 176 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
60 dart
Posted 2021-03-04 11:52 PM (#609506 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 8947
50002000100050010010010010025
Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA
just like the springs on brake shoes a simple brake tool can also be used to remove hood hinges and
reinstall em -----------------------------------------later
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-05 1:33 AM (#609507 - in reply to #609506)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
60 dart - 2021-03-04 8:52 PM
just like the springs on brake shoes a simple brake tool can also be used to remove hood hinges and
reinstall em -----------------------------------------later


Please show me the tool and the technique. I'm talking hood springs by the way, not hinges.



Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-05 1:34 AM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Stroller
Posted 2021-03-05 10:22 AM (#609512 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard


Extreme Veteran

Posts: 371
1001001002525
I've pulled springs off with a pry bar more than once. A bit tricky putting them back on. But yep like a giant brake shoe spring.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-05 10:55 AM (#609515 - in reply to #609512)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
Stroller - 2021-03-05 7:22 AM
I've pulled springs off with a pry bar more than once. A bit tricky putting them back on. But yep like a giant brake shoe spring.


The focus of my exercise is to remove the spring and replace it with one that has been stretched open painted (OE red).

I want a technique that can both remove and replace the spring without damaging the paint. I've pried springs off hinges too. No big deal. Getting them back on by prying? Not easy.

I've watched many spring removal and replacement videos. All GM or Ford, not one Mopar and for sure not one 55-56 Mopar hood spring.

The other guys (GM and Ford and maybe later Mopar) have it waaaaaay easier.





Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-05 12:16 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
wizard
Posted 2021-03-05 11:42 AM (#609518 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+

Posts: 13042
500050002000100025
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island
The alternative would be to remove the hood from the hinges Dave, then it's possible (still difficult) to pull out the springs with a sturdy rope... But, you must probably stand on a ladder or a soap box for to get the proper height. I've done this on a Firebird, but then they are low height cars
Top of the page Bottom of the page
big m
Posted 2021-03-05 6:40 PM (#609528 - in reply to #609506)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7805
50002000500100100100
Location: Williams California
60 dart - 2021-03-04 8:52 PM

just like the springs on brake shoes a simple brake tool can also be used to remove hood hinges and
reinstall em -----------------------------------------later


Chuck, that's how I've always removed and installed them. large screwdriver works well. Of course, there is always a chance the spring pops off and hits the fender, so on a nicely restored car, it could be a problem.


---John
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-05 6:58 PM (#609529 - in reply to #609518)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
wizard - 2021-03-05 8:42 AM
The alternative would be to remove the hood from the hinges Dave, then it's possible (still difficult) to pull out the springs with a sturdy rope... But, you must probably stand on a ladder or a soap box for to get the proper height. I've done this on a Firebird, but then they are low height cars


Umm....NO!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-05 9:10 PM (#609534 - in reply to #609528)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
big m - 2021-03-05 3:40 PM
Chuck, that's how I've always removed and installed them. large screwdriver works well. Of course, there is always a chance the spring pops off and hits the fender, so on a nicely restored car, it could be a problem.
---John


John: I removed springs from a spare set of hood hinges that I either got from you or off eBay. Getting the spring off wasn't that hard. Stretching it for paint and then reinstalling the spring without messing up the new paint is my challenge.

Top of the page Bottom of the page
60 dart
Posted 2021-03-05 11:45 PM (#609538 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 8947
50002000100050010010010010025
Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Professional-Brake-Spring-Plier-Garage-Work...
w/254891023579?hash=item3b58b05cdb:g:AhQAAOSw1qtgQard


slip the small cupped end under and pry it off . to install , use that small cupped end on the corner of the hinge with a little padding on new paint
and stretch it back on . painting in between most of the time is just a waste of time cause the spring coils will almost 100% close . if you have
a million concourse points car have at it but , my dart springs and spares weren't painted between coils ----------------------------------------later

oh ,,, and its all done in a vise
Top of the page Bottom of the page
mikes2nd
Posted 2021-03-06 9:52 AM (#609543 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard


Expert 5K+

Posts: 5006
5000
yeah it does trash the paint, prying it on. i touched mine up afterward
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2021-03-06 3:02 PM (#609555 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9604
500020002000500100
Location: So. Cal
Using a rope or wire with heavy gloves is how I do it. It's amazing how much easier it is to extend it with a rope or wire on it. If the hinge is off the car, I put it in a vice first. If it is on the car, I stretch the spring downward to get it on the lower mount.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-06 3:08 PM (#609558 - in reply to #609538)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
60 dart - 2021-03-05 8:45 PM
oh ,,, and its all done in a vise


Well, like that is never going to happen. I am talking removing springs from hinges mounted to the car and the hood still mounted to the hinge.

I think that one of the issues with the suggestions that people are providing is 55-56 Mopar hood hinges are an entirely different design than the later 57 and up Mopar hood hinges. From what I can see, the later hood hinge springs are external to the linkages of the hinge *AND* the points of the end loops are pointed in the same direction. The 55-56 hood hinge springs are woven into the linkages of the hinge *AND* the points at the end of the springs are 180 deg out, not the same direction, the >b>opposite>/b> direction. Both of those factors complicates the removal and reinstallation of 55-56 Mopar hood hinge springs.

I am going to come up with a solution, maybe as good as Wizards, maybe better ( I hope). After looking at a lot of non-Mopar hood hinge removal Youtube videos, there are some good ideas that can transfer to 55-56 Mopars. Most if not all involve using the hood as the fulcrum, the partially closing the hood to stretch the spring, then inserting something (there are at least 3 solutions) that holds the spring in the stretched position, then opening the hood fully to "relax" the spring (except that it is stuck in the stretched position) and the spring basically falls off.

Comparison of the 57 and up springs to the 55-56 springs:

Not as lovely as these 57 and up springs:





But rather, more complicated, like these 55-56 springs:



A previous failed attempt of mine that might have worked if I pursued it harder, showing the ends of the 55-56 springs pointed in opposite directions:




Top of the page Bottom of the page
wizard
Posted 2021-03-06 3:18 PM (#609559 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+

Posts: 13042
500050002000100025
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island
I have not yet built the Mopar tool for this Dave.
It consist of a tube cut in half with half a washer welded in each of the tube halves, inclined to fit the angle of the spring loops. They are supposed to be inserted when the spring is extended and then held togethe with someting like a string. when you partly close the hood, the springs will stay extended and you can remove the spring.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-06 5:46 PM (#609566 - in reply to #609559)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
wizard - 2021-03-06 12:18 PM I have not yet built the Mopar tool for this Dave.
It consist of a tube cut in half with half a washer welded in each of the tube halves, inclined to fit the angle of the spring loops. They are supposed to be inserted when the spring is extended and then held together with something like a string. when you partly close the hood, the springs will stay extended and you can remove the spring.


Yup. That is one of the one's that I found yesterday (or Thursday) on Youtube. Small catch (for me): I don't/can't weld. (But my neighbour does )
Top of the page Bottom of the page
60 dart
Posted 2021-03-07 12:06 AM (#609579 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 8947
50002000100050010010010010025
Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA
Well, like that is never going to happen


never gave it a thought that it would but someone else might -----------------------------------------------later
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-08 2:15 AM (#609625 - in reply to #609558)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
.
I watched this video today (link below). I learned a few things like a) 57/58 Mopar hood springs are much wimpier than 55/56 hood springs (and can be pulled off the 57/58 gear hinges with a coat hanger)
and b) PlastiKote Engine enamel (red) is what I should be looking for when I get to the repainting stage.

I might try the coat hanger trick on my 56 Dodge tomorrow but I am not hopeful.

Otherwise, it is back to making a tool that keeps the spring open after it is removed.

The video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egaKvX43Ii0



Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-08 2:17 AM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
hemidenis
Posted 2021-03-08 9:49 AM (#609628 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert

Posts: 3887
20001000500100100100252525
Location: Northen Virginia
I like the guy of the video

The question is how the hinges look originally?. According to the videos I saw, the whole car metal was assembled before painted, so it was up to the assembly line painter the saying of how the final look will be.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2021-03-08 11:15 AM (#609634 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9604
500020002000500100
Location: So. Cal
Original hinge color depends on the year and which factory it was made in. I started a thread about it here:
http://forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=67642
But all '55-'56 vehicles were zinc or cadmium plated with a silver color to them. '57-up were no longer plated, but painted with either red primer, body color, or black.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-08 8:59 PM (#609653 - in reply to #609625)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
56D500boy - 2021-03-07 11:15 PM
I might try the coat hanger trick on my 56 Dodge tomorrow but I am not hopeful.


Tried with strong wire. Never going to work unless maybe I laid on the floor under the car and pulled down. There is no room to pull up on a 56 Dodge.

What time is it?

It's Tool Time!!



Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-08 9:02 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
wizard
Posted 2021-03-09 2:24 AM (#609662 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+

Posts: 13042
500050002000100025
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island
The frustration and time consumption of making proper tools is rewarded by the smoothness of the task at hand and proudness for the work Dave.


I've spent many days making tools and many think it's wasted time, but the difference is that I can remove and install parts without any damage.
It'll all pay in the long run.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-09 10:56 PM (#609701 - in reply to #609662)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
wizard - 2021-03-08 11:24 PM
The frustration and time consumption of making proper tools is rewarded by the smoothness of the task at hand and proudness for the work Dave.
I've spent many days making tools and many think it's wasted time, but the difference is that I can remove and install parts without any damage.
It'll all pay in the long run.


Well, I've improved my tool, which of course, was/is based on yours.

The first one, was based on 7/16" bolt at the bottom and 5/16" threaded rod and a modified clevis at the top with a 1/2" x 6" pipe section in the middle. It failed because I couldn't get the clevis to engage the top spring hook and the nut that I was using to turn the 5/16" rod against the pipe section was too short and it started to disappear into the spring to the point that I couldn't turn it any more. There were also unresolved clearance issues that needed to be dealt with.

Version 1:



Version 2 is based on Version 1 except I've used 3/16" x 16 threaded rod, a long piece at the top and a short piece at the bottom. Both pieces were notched to grab the spring hooks and clearanced a bit so notches could get in there and contact the spring hook. I also used a 3/16" x 16, 2" long, threaded coupling nut on the top/long piece so there would be no issues with losing the nut into the spring centre.

There are still some issues:

1. Needs smaller outside diameter flat washers that don't contact the inside of the spring and hang up the process.
2. Might need a bit more clearancing so the threaded rod does not contact the body of the hinge
3. I don't like the way I did the short bottom piece, the notch isn't that even and I am not sure about the clearancing.

All that said, I took a totally relaxed 56 Dodge hood spring that has a contracted coil spring length of 4.5" to 6.25" which was just enough to get the spring onto the hinge. If I get some smaller diameter washers, I think I can improve 6.25" to 6.5" with no problem (I hope) and that will for sure make installation a breeze. NOTE: With the spring on the hinge and the hood open, the coiled section of the spring is slightly open and is about 5 9/16" long (compared to 4.5" relaxed and 6.25" during this current bench top trial.

Photos of Version 2 in action from today:



Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-09 11:02 PM




(56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedWith6inLongPipeAnd3_8x16ThreadedRodAndWashersAndNuts.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_1.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_UpperEndShowingNeedForAdditionalClearancing.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_LowerEndShowingPossibleNeedForAdditionalClearancing.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedWith6inLongPipeAnd3_8x16ThreadedRodAndWashersAndNuts.jpg (139KB - 179 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_1.jpg (119KB - 172 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_UpperEndShowingNeedForAdditionalClearancing.jpg (106KB - 175 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodHingeSpringMechanicallyStretchedAndInstalled_LowerEndShowingPossibleNeedForAdditionalClearancing.jpg (104KB - 170 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-10 2:48 PM (#609720 - in reply to #609701)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
56D500boy - 2021-03-09 7:56 PM
All that said, I took a totally relaxed 56 Dodge hood spring that has a contracted coil spring length of 4.5" to 6.25" which was just enough to get the spring onto the hinge. If I get some smaller diameter washers, I think I can improve 6.25" to 6.5" with no problem (I hope) and that will for sure make installation a breeze. NOTE: With the spring on the hinge and the hood open, the coiled section of the spring is slightly open and is about 5 9/16" long (compared to 4.5" relaxed and 6.25" during this current bench top trial.


UPDATE:

I disassembled Version 2 this AM and installed some smaller diameter washers that are small enough to go inside the spring coils. Then I re-assembled and tightened things up again. This time, I got the coil section of the spring stretched to just under 6.5" which is probably 3/16" more than is needed to get the spring on/off the hinge.

New Issue: I need to grind off the points of the 2" coupling nut where it is closest to the spring because they are bumping into the fixed rod portion of the spring - which would scrape a bit of paint if these were freshly painted and going back on. That wouldn't be good.


Top of the page Bottom of the page
saratoga ny
Posted 2021-03-10 8:46 PM (#609729 - in reply to #609720)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard


Regular

Posts: 52
2525
I have one of those old school paint stands, real sturdy. Anything with sturdy legs will work fine . I took bailing wire attached at both ends of spring for a grab loop. Used cheap mini nylon ratchet straps, hooked up and spread my spring open. Painted them that way on the stand. Next day walked my hinge on the spring, done.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-16 11:10 PM (#610005 - in reply to #609720)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
56D500boy - 2021-03-10 11:48 AMUPDATE:
I disassembled Version 2 this AM and installed some smaller diameter washers that are small enough to go inside the spring coils. Then I re-assembled and tightened things up again. This time, I got the coil section of the spring stretched to just under 6.5" which is probably 3/16" more than is needed to get the spring on/off the hinge.:)


You can see below how the revised spring "jack" worked. While the spring was still on the "jack", I wire-wheeled and sanded it a bit. Then I relaxed the jack (you can see how much the stretch was based on the length of the fixed pipe exposed when I relaxed the tension. Then I removed the "jack" from the spring and mounted the spring on one of my little hydraulic floor jacks and pumped the jack to open up the spring again.

While the spring was open again, I wired-wheeled, sanded, wire brushed and wiped the spring as much as I had patience and time for. Then I gave it a couple of light coats of DupliColor red engine enamel.

Tomorrow, I will probably have to relax the spring again and turn it around and remount it on the floor jack so I can spray the areas that I couldn't get at today. I don't want to have the paint too thick so just fine thin coats (if I can).

Might not be perfect but it's going to be much better than it was when I got the car.








(56DodgeOEHoodSpringStretchedAndWireBrushed.jpg)



(56DodgeOEHoodSpring_RelaxedOnStretcher.jpg)



(56DodgeOEHoodSpringMountedOnHydraulicFloorJackAndReadyForPaint.jpg)



(56DodgeOEHoodSpringMountedOnHydraulicFloorJackPaintedWithDupliColorEnginePaint.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 56DodgeOEHoodSpringStretchedAndWireBrushed.jpg (101KB - 177 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeOEHoodSpring_RelaxedOnStretcher.jpg (119KB - 179 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeOEHoodSpringMountedOnHydraulicFloorJackAndReadyForPaint.jpg (241KB - 168 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeOEHoodSpringMountedOnHydraulicFloorJackPaintedWithDupliColorEnginePaint.jpg (223KB - 167 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-18 12:14 PM (#610084 - in reply to #610005)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
.
I might be starting to hate Dupli Color paint. I had problems in the past when I used the 1995 Dodge Neon "Intense Blue" on the darker blue parts of my 56 Dodge. The odd time, on second (and third) coats, the second (and third) coat would crinkle in random spots, ruining the coat. I learned to expect the issue (small patches) and realize that the only solution was to let the coat dry out and then sand it smooth and go again, maybe not quite so hard. I think that when I got smart, I would start with a light misting coat before I really got on it (before that misted coat dried). That seemed to work.

I probably forgot that and certainly I didn't expect it on these hood springs. Yesterday when I applied second coats to the two spare springs I have been playing with, the paint on both springs crinkled a bit, mostly where the coils would touch (they never actually do when the spring is mounted on the car). I just shook my head and cursed. I will know the issue (most people won't see it).

I will quit painting these two springs and install them. Then, when the weather is better, I will take the removed springs and chemically strip and repaint them. This time I will be more cautious (or use a different paint (I was looking for PlastiKote engine red but couldn't find it - so I bought the Dupli Color engine red)).

At least these newly painted springs will look better than what is on there now.

Live and learn. Too soon old/too late smart.



Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-18 12:18 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
58coupe
Posted 2021-03-18 12:32 PM (#610087 - in reply to #609505)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert

Posts: 1739
100050010010025
Location: Alaska
Dave, I think what may be happening is the solvents in the new paint are lifting what is left of the old paint. You should try a good primer first before the top coat.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-18 9:24 PM (#610109 - in reply to #610087)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
58coupe - 2021-03-18 9:32 AM
Dave, I think what may be happening is the solvents in the new paint are lifting what is left of the old paint. You should try a good primer first before the top coat.


I think you must be right. I purposely avoided primer because I didn't want to build up too much of a layer. As I suggested, for the next pair of springs I will completely (as much as possible) strip the paint off them. If I can't find an all-in-one primer and paint engine paint, I will try a light coat of primer and then the engine paint.

I actually got an OE spring off today. Discovered that playing with a loose spring (one not on a car) is a bit different than using the spring jack on an actual spring on the car. I discovered that in order to get the upper tip of the spring jack to properly contact the upper end of the spring (and suck the spring into the grove in the upper threaded rod), I had to clearance the threaded rod where it was bumping into one of the pins of the hinge (I did NOT see that coming). With a few minutes of Dremel grinding/cut-off disc I made that happen. That helped but I still had to encourage the tip of the threaded rod to go around the spring by using a needle nose Vise Grip on the spring and the threaded rod and twisting accordingly.

After a first failed attempt (tip disengaged from the spring), I took the 2" long 3/8" x 16 coupling nut inside and cut off about 5/8" of it so there were fewer clearance issues at the upper end of the nut. (I think before I use it tomorrow to put one of the painted springs on, I will still have to grind off the corners of the nut at the upper end so it doesn't contact the long straight part of the spring and scratch off the new paint.

With the spring off, I have painted the hinge (again - only better) with Tremclad Gloss Aluminum rust paint. Not cadmium looking but I have another set of hinges that I *could* go nuts on at some point in the future (maybe).

I should mention that I was surprised that the spring came off from the bottom, not the top. For some reason, I thought it would be the top and then the bottom. I guess that the spring was jammed into the retaining slot at the top a lot harder than the bottom. Doesn't really matter. On that basis, I am not sure which end will go into its slot when I put one of the newly painted springs on the hinge.

By the way, I am supporting the hood with the other untouched hood hinge and spring and a 36" piece of 1 x 2 that I cut to have a "tongue" that goes into the hood latch receiver and then jammed into the top hood latch area.

Photos from today (I see from the photo that I have an issue at the heater core that I hadn't seen before - can you spell "New Can O'Worms"?





Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-18 9:32 PM




(OE56DodgeHoodSpringAndModifiedSpringJack.jpg)



(ModificationOfTheHoodSpringJackToClearOneOfTheHingePins.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodSpringRemovedWithModifiedSpringJackBasedOnWizardsDevice.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments OE56DodgeHoodSpringAndModifiedSpringJack.jpg (97KB - 165 downloads)
Attachments ModificationOfTheHoodSpringJackToClearOneOfTheHingePins.jpg (90KB - 157 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodSpringRemovedWithModifiedSpringJackBasedOnWizardsDevice.jpg (118KB - 169 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-19 6:36 PM (#610154 - in reply to #610109)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
.
Installed one of the newly repainted springs with the Spring Jack. Removed the jack from the new spring and then made some modifications to it (angle-grinder on the top points of the shortened coupler nut and added more clearance for the hinge pin). During the removal of the second spring I checked how much interference there is between the hinge pin (broad) head and the threaded rod. I over estimated the issue and could have gotten away with a lot less clearance grinding. Oh well.

I removed the second spring with the jack and then painted the second hinge with Tremclad Aluminum. It's better than it was but not as good as I could do with the hinges off the car and spray paint. I think that will be a summer project using the spare hinges that I bought from John at Big M (with the second set of springs). While the second hinge is drying I am going to go back and paint the rest of the first hinge (carefully protecting the paint on the newly painted spring, etc. etc.)

Still have the heater core can of worms discovered yesterday to deal with. Today, I just wiped the rust stains off the fibreglas housing.

Photos from today:






(56DodgeHoodSpringJackShowingMinimalConflictWithHoodHingePin.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodSpringRepaintedAndInstalled_1.jpg)



(56DodgeHoodSpringRepaintedAndInstalled_2.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 56DodgeHoodSpringJackShowingMinimalConflictWithHoodHingePin.jpg (157KB - 162 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodSpringRepaintedAndInstalled_1.jpg (109KB - 167 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeHoodSpringRepaintedAndInstalled_2.jpg (102KB - 157 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
56D500boy
Posted 2021-03-20 9:59 PM (#610183 - in reply to #610154)
Subject: Re: Hood Hinge Spring Removal - Never Try to out Clever a Wizard



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9855
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: Lower Mainland BC
.
Sorry.

This will be the last post from me in this thread. ("Thank God", says the crowd)

I just finished installing the second newly painted spring using my version of Sven ("wizard")'s threaded 55/56 Mopar spring jack. Yesterday (and a bit today), I painted the hood hinges with the hideously bright Tremclad Gloss Aluminum rust paint (from a can - with a brush). Way too bright but still, better than what was there, so it will do for now until I get ambitious enough to degrease and derust (and paint with a more subtle paint) my spare hinge set and the OE springs that I just took off the car.

Interesting how photos show up things (like the dirty firewall behind the left spring), the surface rust on the hood and even how somebody in the past did a real quick and dirty insitu spray of the underside of the hood with black paint, covering (but not 100%) of the OE light blue underside. Oh well, I was running out of projects anyway. (LOL LOL LOL)

Today:

Edited by 56D500boy 2021-03-20 11:02 PM




(56DodgeWithPaintedHoodSpringAndHoodHinge_Rightside.jpg)



(56DodgeWithPaintedHoodSpringAndHoodHinge_Leftside.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 56DodgeWithPaintedHoodSpringAndHoodHinge_Rightside.jpg (137KB - 158 downloads)
Attachments 56DodgeWithPaintedHoodSpringAndHoodHinge_Leftside.jpg (149KB - 159 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Jump to page : 1
Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page]
Jump to forum :
Search this forum
Printer friendly version
E-mail a link to this thread

* * * This site contains affiliate links for which we may be compensated * * *


(Delete all cookies set by this site)