I have a 1991 Coupe that originally had a steel flat hood. I just bought a Fiber Images hood from someone (second hand, but never installed) and everything seems to fit pretty well except I can't get the latch to work correctly. I tried adjusting it all the way up but it wont latch. I was going to make some spacers to move the latch up a little but first wanted to see if anyone else had issues with the hood latch.. maybe the latch is different on the cars with aluminum hoods? It also looks like I need to adjust the rear mounts and open up the holes a little so I can move the hood forward (too much gap on the headlights) but that isn't very difficult.

So anyone else have similar issues with their cf hood?

http://aram.hartounian.net/rx7pics/cfhood.jpg

 

When I moved my carbon hood from the 'vert to the turbo, I had this problem as well. I ended up taking the latch spring off the car and it latches fine but you have to have someone else open it while I pull the in car release. Apparently there are 2 latch springs, one for steel hoods and a lighter one for the aluminium hoods. I ahven't got the alum. one yet but I believe it will solve my (and your) problem.

 

I had the same problem with my carbon hood. It doesn't latch because it's to light. I took the latch apart and stretched the spring a bit so it would close.

I also had to move the latch position some to get it to work. You will see what I mean once you look at it again. You can drill out the holes bigger on the latch side to slide it to where you need it.

Ed

 

Sounds like its time for me to hit the pick-a-part or the hardware store!

 

Went to the hardware store and picked up a pair of "utility" springs for $2.29.. I got a super light duty set (about half the size of the original one) and it works great. Pops the hood up and if you drop the hood from about 6 inches it latches great.

Now I know why my old aluminum hood was such a pita to shut as well.. I'd recommend any of you guys swapping to lighter hoods to replace that spring.

 

It also helps to remove the front bump stops...