55.2-59 58 hood

[hogfarm]

After not working on the 58 for months,I needed to get back to work.Well I misplaced 1 of the hood springs,I ordered another set.I have the front clip and hood in place,opened the hood to install the new springs.Question how the heck am I going to stretch,the spring that far

[dsraven]

I have seen a member here use the floor jack to stretch the spring out, then use wedges of wood between the wraps on the spring, then release the jack and carefully install. once it's in there you pull the wedges of wood out.
post 333
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...515876&page=14

[dsraven]

same thread post 341 has another method from ogre. using rope

[nail pounder]

I used rachet strap hooked to my front bumper, I changed both sides in 5min.

[Black_Sheep]

Originally Posted by nail pounder

I used rachet strap hooked to my front bumper, I changed both sides in 5min.

If the filler panel is off you can hook to the core support. The ratchet strap method is the easiest way I've tried, probably the safest too...

[hogfarm]

Thanks
I haven't tried to install them yet.been busy.

[hogfarm]

Well I used the floor jack method,was easy to stretch the springs,then I made a tool to hold the spring extended.Then the fun started took the springs off the floor jack and held them with my fixture,it was scary,but got it done

[DaveNY]

I tried the rachet strap too, I had best luck using 1/2" washers.

[raymond0275]

I just used a screwdriver.

[cameo]

first attempt to remove, I used a pair of vise grip pliers while sitting on the fender. After a perfect dismount when the grips ungripped, and landing on my ass in front of the truck, I figured I would try a different approach. I am glad that was way before every one had video cameras on their phone, but it would have been a hit I am sure.

hook the one end on the front axle of the floor jack the other on the pad. jack it up until the spring has a decent stretch. place wedges between the coils (I used a bunch of cardboard) paint stick chunks would be better. lower the jack, the shims will be trapped. put the spring in place on the hinge. move the hood up, and the spring will stretch as the hood goes up. pull the shims and bob's your uncle.