Ok. Trying to fine tune my front clip. I have searched the post and have gone step by step with the instructions I have found. There is still a 3/4 inch gap between the fenders and hood. The hood itself is lined up and looks good. Nice 1/8 to 1/4 gap at cowl. I tried shimming the radiator support and as I raise it, the hood raises as well, creating a gap at the cowl. My firewall support rods are adjusted to specs. I have new inner fenders from our host. Scratching my head right now. I know these trucks weren't the greatest fit, but I dont think I should be able to see my engine through the gap.
Consider it extra cooling....... If your rubber bumpers are touching, that is about as good as it gets. You may be able to adjust the hood latch a little.
The very first thing we do is toss the hinges. We fit the hood/fenders/firewall gaps and THEN fiddle with the hinges. You have too many things going on to try and make everything fit at once. This is always done before the truck is painted but the pieces are "cut in" before bolting together so everything is painted when finished. Here's a recent 54 that came through the shop.
Tossing the hinges Thanks for the advice and the great pics. I know I've seen these trucks with good lines or at least not a 3/4 " gap. Gonna take off the hinges and give it a try.
Everything from the firewall forward revolves around the placement of the radiator support. The inner fender supports and fenders are attached to it, the grille placement depends on it, the hood latch in the front depend on it, etc, etc. As Coilover has stressed so often, sheetmetal placement prior to painting is critical on these trucks. Remove the hinges and place the hood down and see if you have a good fit on the fenders. If not, make adjustments up or down on the fenders, radiator support, etc. Once you get the proper fitment, adjust your hinges. Don't forget that you have an adjuster that will flatten out the hood if that is neccessary!
I have never seen the new Chinese repop inner fenders {as we have stacks of originals laying around}..... but if these new repop inner fenders fit anything like the repop hoods & outer fenders do..... you may not ever get everything lined up properly.
