Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

I know this is a dumb little thing, but I'm trying to replace the triangle shaped hood stops that go on the fenders (and hopefully keep the hood from rattling).

They have a ridged nub that goes into the fender -- I can't for the life of me get that thing in there. Tried various screwdrivers, etc.

Is there some trick, or are they designed specifically to make restorations take longer?

Copious amounts of silicone spray/liquid soap is your friend when installing hood and door bumpers. That being said, I've never installed Roadster hood bumpers, but it should help a little at least.

I've always used a very small screwdriver with some WD-40. You have to press pretty hard so you might want to protect the paint just in case it slips. Be careful that you don't poke yourself either. Once you get a small portion in, work your way around and it should pop in.

Is it harder than it needs to be . . . yep. But the hardest thing I've EVERY done with my cars is put the stupid stainless molding on the windshield. What a PITA!!!!

Shannon

I managed to get them on by pulling the nub through from the underside with needle nose pliers.

great tips, thanks.

You have to press pretty hard so you might want to protect the paint just in case it slips.

If you saw my car up close, you'd be chuckling along with me.

That hood rattle is supposed to be there. I did have a fine time getting all 4 of mine in. But now I have to figure out how to adjust the hood to fit them properly.

Rich

I got new ones, tried once, half-heartedly, to get them in. Threw them across the garage in frustration after 20 minutes of fiddling.
Scrambled to find them. Put them in a zip lock bag. They look nice in the zip lock bag. Think I'll leave them there.

LOL! I might video my attempts just for everyone else's entertainment.

Silicone spray: Good.
Pulling them through with needle nose pliers: Brilliant.

bikermike with the Tip of the Day!

...or you could just cut the nubs off and then glue them in with silicone etc...

Too easy! This is supposed to be painful right?

just shave them a bit - there will be enough left to keep them in place - there is no stress on them - worked for me

I will try that, shaving or silicone on the upper ones.

I too have had mine sitting in a zip lock back since April '10 when I bought new ones and gave up trying after 20 minutes as well. So the silicone spray and pliers tips will help me get those things on there at long last! Thanks!!

Ahh man, ya'll are gonna make me put those damn things on - I hate being guilted into things..........