I just wanted to know if anyone has tried to use any of the various aftermarket hoods with their V8 swapped rx7's.

Skeltah.

 

Matt, I'd guess that most of them will have clearance issues with an LS1 since my hood is real tight on my throttle body as it is, and most of the aftermarkets sit a little lower (some of them create issues with intercooler piping on non-converetd cars). I know of at least one person that has an issue with a scoot styled hood and clearance.

LT1s will sit a little lower. John (LT1-7) has a knightsports or a mazdaspeed hood on his that fits just fine.

IMHO stay with the stocker unless you have a reason to change. It looks good and it's pretty damn light. The only reasons I could see to go aftermarket are cosmetic, or to let some heat escape if you add a power adder.

 

Thanks man,

I figured there would be problems with fitment. My problem is that I just had a branch fall on my hood and it left a pretty nasty dent. nothing too bad but enough to **** me off.:-)
if it were anywhere else on the body i would try a paintless dent repairman. But, I believe the hood is aluminum and doesnt like to moved once it is bent.

 

i have a good friend who does paintless dent repair, he had little trouble pulling a couple dings out of my hood. if it's large or badly creased you may be sol though.