Auto Restoration 101

Here’s and easy way to replace hood springs on 60’s and 70’s GM cars. All you need is a large box end wrench. I use a Craftsman adjustable wrench because it has a large opening in the handle which works great for this.


Have a friend hold the hood open for you or use a hood prop. This is important because once you remove the spring the other hinge spring will not be able to support the weight of the hood. Cover the inner fender and fender so you don’t scratch something just in case you drop your tools or the spring drops.

Take the opening of the wrench and slide it onto the spring loop.

Grab the wrench with both hands and pull really hard. You might need to get some help pulling. Its’ also a good idea to wear gloves to get a better grip. Hood springs are very stong, even if the springs are too weak to hold the hood up.
Pull until the spring hook is away from the hinge and slowly let the spring relax. Installing the new spring is just the reverse.