Hood Latch

Remove and replace the hood latch assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including cable adjustment and alignment verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Hood latch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hood release cable (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Open the hood and prop it securely with the hood prop rod.
2. Verify the hood is stable and will not close during work.
3. Clean the latch area of dirt and debris for clear access to mounting hardware.

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark Latch Position
   Before removal, use masking tape or a marker to mark the outline of the hood latch on its mounting bracket/panel. This reference will simplify alignment during installation and preserve the existing adjustment.
2. 2

   Disconnect Hood Release Cable
   Locate the hood release cable attached to the latch mechanism. Use needle-nose pliers to compress the cable housing retaining clip and slide the cable housing out of the bracket. Unhook the cable end from the latch lever by rotating it to disengage.
3. 3

   Remove Latch Safety Catch
   If equipped with a secondary safety catch mechanism, disconnect it from the main latch assembly. This typically involves unhooking a spring clip or removing a small retaining clip. Note the orientation for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove Hood Latch Bolts
   Locate the hood latch mounting bolts securing the latch to the radiator support. Remove the bolts using a 10mm or 13mm socket. Support the latch as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from dropping.
   ℹ️The latch may be secured with adjustment slots allowing fore-aft positioning. Note the current position relative to your alignment marks.
   Torque spec

   Hood Latch Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove Hood Latch Assembly
   Lift the hood latch assembly away from the radiator support. Inspect the mounting area for damage, corrosion, or worn hardware. Clean the mounting surface if necessary.
6. 6

   Inspect Cable and Components
   With the latch removed, inspect the hood release cable for fraying, kinking, or damage. Check the cable housing for cracks. Inspect the latch mechanism for wear, broken springs, or damaged pivot points. Replace components as needed.
7. 7

   Position New Latch
   Position the new or serviced hood latch assembly on the radiator support, aligning it with the reference marks made during removal. Insert the mounting bolts finger-tight through the adjustment slots if present.
8. 8

   Reconnect Hood Release Cable
   Hook the cable end onto the latch lever, ensuring it engages properly and operates smoothly. Insert the cable housing into its bracket and secure it with the retaining clip. Verify the cable has slight slack and is not kinked.
9. 9

   Reconnect Safety Catch
   If equipped, reconnect the secondary safety catch mechanism to the main latch. Ensure any spring clips or retaining hardware are properly seated and the mechanism moves freely.
10. 10

    Perform Initial Alignment
    Before final tightening, close the hood slowly to check latch engagement with the hood striker. The latch should capture the striker smoothly without forcing. Open the hood and adjust the latch position fore-aft or side-to-side as needed using the slotted mounting holes.
11. 11

    Torque Latch Bolts
    Once alignment is verified, torque the hood latch mounting bolts to specification. Work in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present to ensure even clamping pressure.
    Torque spec

    Hood Latch Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Test Operation
    Close the hood fully and verify it latches securely. Pull up on the front of the hood to confirm it is locked. Pull the hood release handle/mechanism to verify the cable releases the latch smoothly. Repeat this cycle 3-4 times to confirm consistent operation.
13. 13

    Lubricate Mechanism
    Apply a small amount of lithium-based grease to the latch pivot points, striker contact surface, and cable connection points. Avoid over-lubrication which can attract dirt and debris.

Reassembly

1. Installation is performed following the steps above.
2. Ensure all cable routing matches the original path to prevent interference or binding.
3. Verify hood alignment is correct with even gaps on both sides before final torque.

Verification

• Close and open the hood 5-10 times to verify smooth, consistent latch engagement and release.
• Verify the hood sits flush with the fenders and has equal gaps on both sides.
• With the hood closed, attempt to lift the front edge to confirm the latch holds securely.
• Check that the hood release handle operates smoothly without excessive force or sticking.
• Inspect the cable routing to ensure it does not interfere with other components or sharp edges.

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