Billet Grill users

zugg · 08-11-2008, 11:15 AM

Hi,

I have a new billet grill and it requires a lever extension to open the hood latch.
The lever extension that came with mine (once installed) sticks out.
You can see it and does not look right.
Before I drill and reshape parts, I am looking for any advice.
I recently met Jeffrey, a forum member, and I may have him make a custom metal lever.

Also, the tabs that hold the bottom of the grill to the van are not lined up.
It looks like one would have to bend the grill tabs to have them connect the clips to the van.

Any advice would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Zugg

Ed in Montana · 08-11-2008, 11:28 AM

Zugg, I keep a screwdriver handy in the front Aluminess bumper to open the hood lever through the Billet Grill. My fingers are too big to fit to do it by hand.

adventureduo · 08-11-2008, 11:33 AM

Lever extension? No wonder my finger hurts when i have to pop the hood

cellularSTEVE · 08-11-2008, 01:14 PM

I have to squeeze my fingers in to release it, which works fine. Makes it harder for others not to open it.

As far as the clips go at the bottom, mine looks like it won't fit but when you get close the clips actually bend a bit, then I pop it right in. It is very snug.

steve

patrick51 · 08-11-2008, 06:15 PM

I found the bottom mounting screws, (into the plastic bumper), skewed off, when mounted, so had to pull them out and re-attache them, so the botttom of the grille was securered. As far as the lever, I intalled a small loop from nylon cord, this extends through the grille, and just hangs out of sight for the most part, until ready to use, then I pull it in the direction of the relase, and lift the hood. It is simple and if you use good cordage material works without any give when pulled. Find black cord and it will hardly be seen.

zugg · 08-28-2008, 10:01 PM

Hi Patrick1,

I was in no rush to drill holes in my van and it was a smart choice.
I decided to tie a piece of cord to my hood latch release and it works great!
I used a piece of black climbing shoelace, just the right length and it does not touch the radiator. With a few crafty knots, it is good to go!
The tabs at the bottom of my billet grill now fit into the same plastic molding, like the OEM grill setup.
I just had to move one sied of the grill, then the other.
A few gentle taps on each side, and the tabs lined up!
Once the three top bolts are tight, the grill does not move at all!
My chrome billet grill looks way better than the OEM Ford plastic grill.

Thanks for the suggestion!!

Peace,

Zugg