So I have a stuck hood on my 77 cutlass. I have tried every trick i know and have had a few other ppl look at it and try to get it unstuck. My cable came completely out and i think it missed the primary latch and hooked on something else. Ive taken my grilles off and probed around trying to unlatch it. Im at wits end and thinking off buying a new hood and angle grinding my current one off. I know it sucks to do but currently cant drive it due to a loose battery cable. So two questions-what hoods are compatible with the 77? I have received contradicting information on this subject on what years from 76 to 77 or 72 to 78. Also before i go that route do you guys have any ideas on maybe getting it unstuck?

 

Feel for you. With the grills out you should be able to get to the hood latch or the cable, Have a good light to really see what you are doing.

 

Focus on accessing the three bolts that retain the entire hood latch bracket that bolts to the front of the radiator support. I would think they should be accessible with the grills removed. Have you tried reaching up from underneath? Before you think about cutting up the hood, you best have an idea where you can find a replacement within a reasonable driving distance as I doubt you'll find anyone who's willing to ship one of those "barn doors". If you do pursue a replacement hood, you'll need to look for either a '76 or '77 Supreme (per Hollander Parts Interchange Manual).

 

Thank you ill give both of these a shot this weekend! I havent thought of removing the hood latch. Definitely not going for a barn door if i dont get it unfortunately unstuck. I appreciate the help from both of you guys. Ill let you guys know if i get her open.

 

Either way, you're going to need a replacement hood release cable. They do make repros for $80-$90. If you want a good used one, I have a spare I'd part with for $45 (plus shipping).

Keep us posted on getting the hood unlatched.