'51 HJ Hood hinge springs

[callibeck]

I need the springs (one or both) for the hood hinge for my adorable blue Henry J.  Suggestions for substitutions also welcome.

[swade41]

How many springs per side on these hinges ? I've got one spring per side but it sure doesn't hold the hood up.

[callibeck]

There is one spring on each hinge.  They are to help in raising the hood.  There is a rod inside at the front that you raise up to hold up the hood - like a grand piano.

[swade41]

There is one spring on each hinge.  They are to help in raising the hood.  There is a rod inside at the front that you raise up to hold up the hood - like a grand piano.

thanks, mine of course has no rod, one more mystery out of the way...lol

[Fid]

Here's some pictures of the hood prop rod -


Here's how it is mounted / connected. Picture shows a 4 cylinder car but the six is the same.



Here's what it looks like. Easily fabricated from some 1/4" round stock if need be.



There is a clip on the other side to store the rod and keep it from rattling when the hood is shut -

[swade41]

Well mine is missing a bit more than the rod !

[Fid]

Ah yes.  If you're using the original hinges/springs, it will require a support rod. Looks like you can do yours any way you choose.  A stock Henry J radiator will not cool a small block Chev motor so you did the right thing. I know some cars have the hood prop rod laying along the inner front fender lengthwise parallel to the car. Your car may be a good candidate for that.

[swade41]

I can't take any credit for anything done to the car, I just bought it a couple weeks ago. I'm just cutting my teeth on what's stock and what isn't....lol
 I do plan on changing several things on the car though.

[callibeck]

Hi, FID.  I wrote to TEX DEAN.  Thanks for his e-mail.  Then I heard from his daughter Cristal that TEX has sadly just recently passed away. She and Tex's friend are going to try to answer his e-mails.  She thinks that Tex has used old trampoline springs in the hinges!

[Fid]

Oh that is so sad that Tex has passed away! He knew the parts well and often had those hard-to-find items. His prices were a bit high but what can you do if you need something and there is nowhere else to get it? Thanks for the info.

[swade41]

Wow ! To sad, I just spoke with him and bought the windshield divider I needed from him, I just got it last week. R.I.P.