Bonnet Install [without guide marks]

[TulsaFred]

Finally got a couple coats of single stage Olde English White on the Bugeye.
Now thinking about reinstalling the bonnet.
Should I:

1. Install hinges on body first
2. Install hinges on the bonnet first

Most seem to recommend option 1. Anyone done it option 2?

Should I:

1. Install engine first
2. Install bonnet first
3. Install bonnet first, adjust, mark the hinge locations on the bonnet, remove again, install engine, then install bonnet.

Option 3 might make it easier to jimmy around the bonnet to line up without the engine in the way.

I saw where Peter C recommended making dowels by cutting the heads off a couple bolts for the initial line up. Sounds like a good idea.
I saw where Jim Gruber used a sling and hoist. Since I work alone, this also sounds like a good idea.

Other tips/thoughts?

Thanks
Fred

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Fred, sling and hoist are great if you are doing a Rustoleum paint job. For you perhaps the sling and hoist and two other friends. Don't mess up the new paint. Definitely engine and accessories first. Like the idea of the dowel method for initial alignment. I'm going front hinged so that is easier. Find some friends.

 

[Rut]

Fred,
mount the hinges to the car and use a bolt with the head cut off to aid alignment. Working alone I would use a hoist with 4 point attachment for control. Install everything that goes in the engine compartment first, everything that goes on the bonnet next. Put towels everywhere anything might make contact and cut a piece of cardboard on the hinge to prevent scratching. I like to put tape on all surfaces to prevent scratching, but I'm pretty anal about things like that. I like a hoist that is easy to control and offers very small adjustments, like an engine hoist that allows easy up and down adjustment.
good luck, Rut

 

[nomad]

I agree with the above but putting one on a BE without plenty of man power is something I would not attempt. Lots of towel's!!!!! With good helpers I would consider attaching the bonnet prop's first. That is if you have good bonnet holder's.
When I remove one I mark with a sharpie so I can get it back easily.

Kurt.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

And make sure the battery is either out of the way or covered.

 

[Rut]

Jim x2! Take the battery out!
Rut

 

[drooartz]

Hinges on the body, install the bonnet *last* in the chain. I did my reinstall with two helpers, bribed a couple friends with lunch. Doesn't take very long to do.

 

[bug_sixty]

I made a six point strap setup years ago that meets at the apex above with a large ring (a sling if you will) then raise and lower with a come along... lower the B onto the hinges at a angle....cover everything with padding of course... no more holding dead weight while someone screws in bolts...haha

 

[TulsaFred]

Great advice, thanks.
I'll install engine first and make a good sling. I'll make some dowels. Then I'll see if I can get some friends to help, but they all think I am a bit odd for working on old cars. They seem prefer golf and tennis to grease and busted knuckles! I guess I am a little odd, but you guys make it seem more mainstream, so thanks for that.

Fred

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Fred,
Fortunately I had some old sailing hardware, Harken Ball Bearing turning blocks and a Mainsheet Cleat I was able to pull out of the back of my garage to use for a hoist but I've seen advertised things like a bicycle hoist to put your bike up at the ceiling and a platform that hangs from the ceiling that you can raise or lower to throw stuff up there. Hardtop hopist for a Miata Hardtop. All sorts of things you can get pulleys from or adapt for the situation. If you have a hoist your buddies can hold the bonnet in one hand and beer in the other. That may appeal to them.

 

[bug_sixty]

YESSS...I'll drink to that!!