Hood Vent Mod

[big dad]

Here's my hood vent mod that I just finished, I thought about this 2 years ago but other things had priority.

Anyway, it took about 2 weeks and there was some trial and error, especially with the fitment, in fact I almost gave up on it, but I took a break and pressed on. It was labor intensive, but I think it turned out pretty good and I didn't have to modify the hood openings.

 

[Woody6799]

Looks good! How sturdy is that mesh you used?

 

[big dad]

It's pretty sturdy for the application, in fact it gives the frame a lot of rigidity if it's used properly.

My first attempt at this wasn't very successful as I noted because I wasn't using it properly. Once I took a break from it and gave some more thought I got on the right track. The screen is 1/4 squares and galvanized for rust prevention although it could be painted.

Once I removed the original ribs the frame loses it sturdiness and can distort quite a bit thus fitment issues. I wanted it to snap in place so it wouldn't come off while driving. Believe me, it's in very tight but can be removed.

I'd like to add that originally I painted it semi-gloss black but changed it to flat black which comes closer to the stock vents in appearance.

 

[NC03SVT]

Where did you get that plastic border piece for the underside of the vent?

 

[big dad]

Where did you get that plastic border piece for the underside of the vent?

That's actually a strip that runs along the edge of a running board on a conversion van. It has a metal core so it can be bent and pinched in place. I got mine (about 6 feet), from a guy who worked at an RV store that I new.

I bet you could get some at a bone yard if you tried.

 

[03' White Snake]

You can buy the trim at MCMASTER CARR or Grainger or MSC too. Its panel edging.