Moparts Tech Archive
Tech Misc. Info
Removal of Shaker Hood Bezel
Credit to MGibbons...Topic: "...SURE FIRE method to remove Shaker Hood Bezel."gibbonsm
Moparts Member
Posts: 210
From: Sugar Land, TX USA
Registered: Jun 2000
posted 07-01-2001 11:53 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I've received a request from one of our fellow Board members to detail how to remove a Shaker Hood Bezel without breaking off those fragile POT METAL studs.
I utilized this procedure with 100% success on my '70 Shaker Challenger R/T (see website below). The hood I purchased from a friend, had been sitting for 20(+) years and had all of the usual surface rust, multiple repaints and primer.
Step #1 - Place the hood upside down and lying flat on it's back with the studs facing upward. I used two saw horses with padding to accomplish this.
Step #2 - Soak each stud/nut with Liquid Wrench.
Step #3 - Keep that can of Liquid Wrench by your garage/shop door. Every time you walk by that hood facing up, give those studs/nuts another shot of Liquid Wrench.
Step #4 - Unless you're in a BIG hurry (not recommended), repeat Step #3 over a period of several weeks (if not months).
Step #5 - When you're ready to remove the nuts, buy a small propane torch and a nut driver of the appropriate size.
Step #6 - Apply a SMALL amount of heat to the nut/stud. Do not OVERHEAT the assembly. DO NOT heat till cherry red. Just a mild application of heat, until you see the Liquid Wrench beginning to burn.
Step #7 - Take the nut driver in your LEFT hand (if you are RIGHT handed). Vice versa if you are LEFT handed. Apply a gentle amount of CCW torque immediately after heating and the nut should back right off.
Step #8 - If you encounter a stubborn nut, repeat Steps #3 through #7.
This procedure worked on the very first try, and I safely removed the OEM bezel.
When reinstalling the bezel use Mr. G's Shaker Fastener kit. It's perfect.
Good luck!
Tech Index