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Very often a
very cool enhancement to a vehicle is something not enjoyed just by
looking. This is one example that I just had to have. I do not
do that much work under the hood, but when I do, I have always found it a
hassle to deal with the weight of the hood and the need to position the
prop rod. Once the hood is up, inevitably, the prop rod gets in the
way. Yes, it is a minor inconvenience for most, but when I realized
I may be doing more under the hood when installing lights and other
accessories, I decided the best time to install this accessory is right
away.
Redline Tuning manufactures and distributes a product called
QuickLift. It is a pair of gas springs designed to overcome the weight
of the hood once it has been lifted just a little. With a slight
nudge, the springs take over and raise the hood all the way without
additional assistance.
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The
springs come in black or for a premium, you can order the same
device with a classy stainless steel finish. Brackets, clips
and clear instructions accompany the springs. You need a drill
and a riveter to install the pair.
I never
read all of the instructions before installing something. (I
prefer not to read instructions at all.) I wish I had in this
case. They tell you after telling you to drill holes on the
underside of the hood to place tape around the bit to prevent the
bit from hitting the underside of the hood's top. It was a
good suggestion, but came too late after having it happen to me.
There was no real damage unless you look really hard, but I still
wish I caught that tip before they told me where to drill.
The
installation took a very short time and the instructions are
extremely detailed. The bottom, brackets are installed using
bolts instead of rivets. I went ahead and installed an extra
rivet to make sure the brackets were on firmly. |
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Anyone
who has never used a riveter before should not be intimidated.
A satisfactory riveter only costs $15 to $20 and it is very easy to
use.
The final
result not only looks great when the hood is up, but the effort to
open and close the hood has now become a bit fun as well as
convenient.
Visit the
Redline Tuning Web Site for a movie that demonstrates how easily
the hood is raised and lowered using the QuickLift system.
Cost is $70 to $120 plus shipping depending on chosen options.
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