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12-06-2019, 03:02 PM | #1 |
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Location: San Diego
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49 Mercury hood binding problems
Does anyone have any tips on how to adjust the hood of a 49 mercury? The problem is the hood binds at the cowl right in the center of the hood. The hood actually pops when it’s opened. It seems every adjustment I’ve tried using the bolts on the brackets have not improve the situation. I’m wondering if the springs need to be replaced, or the hinges themselves. Any suggestions how to diagnose and correct this are appreciated. Thanks!
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12-06-2019, 03:58 PM | #2 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
First, the hood support springs have nothing to do with locating the hood.
When the hood is closed and latched is the center of the hood level with the cowl? Loosen the 3 bolts on the cowling on each side and move the brackets forward and upward to start with. Tighten and recheck etc/etc.
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12-06-2019, 05:09 PM | #3 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Thanks. I’ll recheck to see if the top of the hood is level with the cowl, but I’m confident that it is. I’ve loosened the 3 bolts that adjust the hood, moves it forward, back, etc, but haven’t been able to correct the problem. Is that the only adjustment or potential cause for the problem? I appreciate the advice, thanks
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12-06-2019, 05:28 PM | #4 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
If it's catching anywhere on the cowl, it's too close since the hood doesn't move straight up when you open it. The hood has to be relatively straight for a decent adjustment. If some kid ever walked around on it then it can be troublesome to get a good fit. Sheet metal issues have to be addressed.
Condition of the hood bumpers can also have an affect. The hood may set too low if they are worn or missing. Cars that show signs of front end collision can be near impossible to fit. The condition of the hood hinges and mounts is also important. If the hood was ever sprung by coming open driving down the road, all the affected points need to be inspected for bend or twist damages. Thankfully, all the 49 thru 51 hinges are the same so there are likely still good ones out there. If the inner fender structure gets sprung, it can be a bear to get alignment. Make sure all your hardware is in good condition too. Clean and straight hardware make adjustments easier. |
12-06-2019, 05:41 PM | #5 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Joey, Be sure and check the sheet metal on the top inside of the fender where the springs mount. Sometimes that area develops cracks from years of stressful movement.
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12-06-2019, 08:38 PM | #6 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
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Rotate both hinges as far as possible then lock in place. If necessary rotate opposite way.
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12-07-2019, 03:28 PM | #7 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Guys - thanks for the tips. I won’t be back to my car until next week to take another crack at the hood. I appreciate the information and I will report back on my progress. Have a great day!
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12-10-2019, 01:28 AM | #8 |
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Location: San Diego
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Thanks again. I followed the suggestions you gave me and I was able to resolve the binding of the hood on the cowl. Now I need to work with the hood some more to correct the margins on the sides of the hood. There is zero clearance on the right side of the hood. I can’t see any evidence of front end collision damage, so I’m thinking it’s still an adjustment issue. I’m thinking I need to mess with the hood brackets a bit more, unless there are any other suggestions on how to correct it. Thanks.
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12-10-2019, 02:36 PM | #9 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
If the gap is narrow on one side then it should be wide on the other. That's a good indication for continued bracket adjustment. This kind of stuff is what clues you to how much you can adjust. If the hood latches and it's still off to one side, that could be a sign of a deeper rooted problem. The hood latch mechanism may not have much adjustability. The latch pin could be bent or worn and need some work.
My 51 cars have pretty narrow gaps on both sides but at least they are straight. |
12-10-2019, 07:46 PM | #10 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
When ever the situation required it, this is what I have done to correct the gap on the front of the hood.
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12-11-2019, 12:59 AM | #11 |
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Location: San Diego
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
The gap is very tight on one side and wider on the other. On the tight side, it is particularly tight, actually rubbing, on the corner closest to the cowl on the right hand side. I’ll be back to the car on Thursday and try to adjust it using the block of wood and hammer technique.
Once again, thanks for the suggestions. I really appreciate them. Especially the awesome graphics! |
12-11-2019, 05:08 AM | #12 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Careful with the Hammer technique. The suggestion by 51 Merc was for alignment issues with the front. You have issues with the sides. Continue to work the bracket before bringing out the BFH.
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12-13-2019, 11:37 PM | #13 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Thanks for the Tips, guys. I didn’t use the hammer technique because my problem was in the back corner of the hood. It took about Four hours of adjusting (no kidding) the brackets, but I was finally able to get margins on all sides of the hood. Not perfect, needs more work, but much better than it was. Thanks for the advice!
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12-14-2019, 03:27 AM | #14 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Just a tip, once the brackets are finally located, choose a common nail or any round rod that's appox. 3/32" dia.
Drill one or two holes (two would be best) in a convenient location thru the bracket and the body that the rod will just slip into. The holes can be covered to seal with dum-dum putty. The purpose is that if the brackets had to be removed for any reason, pins could be inserted into the holes to locate the bracket in it's original position.
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DON'T RECALL DOING SOMETHING FOR MYSELF BASED ON SOMEONE ELSE'S LIKES OR DISLIKES Last edited by 51 MERC-CT; 12-14-2019 at 09:29 AM. |
12-15-2019, 11:12 PM | #15 |
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Re: 49 Mercury hood binding problems
Thanks for the tip, 51.
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