I've been looking around at hood pins for a good time now and am still unsure of the brand or kind that I want. I was curious as to what everyone else was using as to brand and type. There seems to be two types, the latch type and the cotter pin type as well as aluminum and stainless.

Regardless of the type, I plan on purchasing stainless because of the higher tensile strength. I know the advantages of using the latch type is that there is nothing to lose, and from the inside of the car you can easily see if you hood is properly secured (if the hood pins have been installed transversely, i.e. left-to-right instead of front to back).

If I bought the cotter pin type, I would likely buy lanyard cables to keep from losing them and for the added insurance that the hood won't come off. I'm also aware that some kits offer different length and diameter bolts. I know each application will vary but I was curious what brand/type you guys were using.

Latch Type: ~$16

http://www.susquehanna.com/susq/other/hoodpins.htm





[Modified by mojoGSR92, 12:23 PM 12/20/2002]

 

Honestly, I think all latch types are exactly the same. As long as the nut on the pin going through the rad support is on tight and loc-tited, you're not going to have a problem. There's no point in spending alot of money on sparcos or omp's when you can get a ricer brand for half the price and have the exact same product.

 

the blue tape was to keep the paint from fraying when i drilled holes for the rivets.

APC hood pins

 

Just to let you guys know, installing the latch type horizontally across your hood is better for safety reasons. While in the car, it is easier to see that the hood is actually latched. I see that most people install them front to back (like the Integra above) which isn't necessarily wrong, but not necessarily the best way either.

If I end up getting the latch type, I'll more than likely install them transverly.

 

I have the captive type on my Civic and the old-school type on my rally car. I prefer the captive type by far. I have the OMP, but I would have bought the no-name ones if they were available here. Don't get colours unless you like fading. I also agree that mounting them sideways lets you see that they're secure even while driving.


[Modified by Civic44, 3:56 AM 12/21/2002]

 

1) Are there any advantages or disadvantages between the clip and latch kind besides what's mentioned above?

2) Any reason you guys have a preference to one or the other?

3) What do you typically see at track days/road racing? (Speedvision, HC, etc besides DZUS)