Disclaimer
Duraflex hoods and hood accessories are aftermarket parts intended exclusively for off-road and show use. These hoods are often lighter than stock versions and may have vented designs, which can lead to increased aerodynamic lift at high speeds. For safety, hood pins or AeroCatch latches are required, as standard hood latches may not provide enough security.
Due to the nature of fiberglass and its manufacturing process, Duraflex hoods are not direct bolt-on parts. They typically require extensive preparation, including sanding, cutting, shaving, and filling gaps. Some areas may need additional fiberglass reinforcement for added durability. Drilling holes for mounting, making custom fitting adjustments, and modifying components like windshield washer nozzles and tubing using a rotary tool are often necessary. Depending on the hood design, not all original parts, such as washer nozzles, may transfer to the new hood, requiring replacements or modifications.
Hood Latch Adjustments
Duraflex hoods may require adjusting the hood latch for proper alignment and secure closure. This process involves repositioning the latch and making small tweaks to ensure the striker catches correctly. Since fiberglass hoods can have minor variations or warping, additional work such as enlarging mounting holes or using shims might be needed. Hood bump stops may also need adjustment or removal for a proper fit.
Hood Accessories: Scoops and Other Modifications
Duraflex offers a variety of hood accessories, including scoops, designed to improve both performance and appearance. Installing a scoop usually requires drilling holes in the hood for mounting, using bolts or adhesive depending on the scoop style. When attaching scoops to fiberglass hoods, adding fiberglass reinforcement around the mounting area may be necessary to ensure a secure fit. Accurate measurements and proper fitting are critical to avoid leaks and maintain the hood’s integrity.
For best results, Duraflex recommends professional installation by a custom shop experienced with fiberglass components and hood accessories. Traditional auto repair shops may not have the required expertise to handle these types of modifications.
Safety and Legal Use
Duraflex hoods, hood accessories, and other products are strictly for off-road and show use. Due to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, many of these products are not street legal. Duraflex does not recommend or endorse using these products on public roads or highways.