The California Pony Cars hood-lift...
The California Pony Cars hood-lift kit (PN ENG-058-551) fits '05-'08 Mustangs. We had it installed on our '05 GT subject car in a matter of minutes. The convenience can't be beat, and you'll love it every time you lift the hood on your S197.
Since 1974, Mustangs have always gone the cheap-Charlie route when it comes to how the hood is held up. No springs or struts on the hinges means that a prop rod is used to hold up the hood while accessing the engine.
Although the new '05-'08s also use this admittedly reliable and functional prop rod, it's surely not the most convenient thing in the world. In fact, compared to just popping the hood and letting a pair of struts or springs lift and hold it, it's kind of a pain in the you-know-what.
Queue up our friends at California Pony Cars to take the stage please, as we show the company's trick new hood-lift kit that fits all S197 Mustangs, from V-6 rentals all the way up to the Shelby GT500KR.
It's a great new setup to be sure, and it literally takes about 10 minutes to install, even with our cameras photographing the process. Tired of that dumb prop rod? Then this deal is the way to go.
The CPC kit is simple but...
The CPC kit is simple but well engineered. The four lift brackets and the two struts are the whole thing. The two long lift brackets are used in addition to the stock hood hinges rather than replacing them.
Should the hood slip from...
Should the hood slip from your grasp, place a towel or pad between the hood edge, cowl, and fender to protect against scratches or other damage.
On the passenger side, locate...
On the passenger side, locate the top windshield washer hose clip and remove it from the hood. It can be cut with a knife or side cutters, or pulled out with pliers. This will make room for the long lift bracket. The clip won't be reused.
Working on one side at a time,...
Working on one side at a time, remove the two hinge bolts.
Holding the hood at the rear...
Holding the hood at the rear corner, position the appropriate (driver or passenger side) upper hood-lift bracket over the hinge.
Install both hinge bolts finger...
Install both hinge bolts finger tight and adjust forward or rearward until the hinge lines up with the tape. Once you're sure the hinges are in their original position, tighten the hood bolts securely.
Remove the last fender bolt...
Remove the last fender bolt next to the cowl (firewall).
Install the lower bracket...
Install the lower bracket using the factory fender bolt.
Install the gas struts by...
Install the gas struts by popping them in place at the top and the bottom. Be sure the cylinder is up and the shaft is down. Complete the installation by performing the same procedure on the other side. The factory prop rod and J-nut can be removed or they can just stay in place with the rod in its stored position.