2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Hood Secondary Latch

[DavidC]

Just a FYI that involves 2nd and maybe 3rd gens. Went to open the hood, pulled the inside latch, went to the front and no release to be found. At this point I figured I have really lost it as I have owned this truck since new and never had a problem opening the hood. Fumbled around a bit and found a black rod hanging down into the bumper, what the hell is that ?. Well it is the release rod of course. Finally opened the hood after fumbling around with a welding rod and lo and behold the rod was attached with a plastic retainer that broke. I disassembled everything, threaded the rod to 10-24, installed two jam nuts with blue loctite. So if you have not modified yours you should at least source a new clip and replace it while the hood still opens. It is not a matter of if it will break but when it will break. I wonder what plastic marvel is lurking in the break zone next.

Dave

 

[GrantP]

Plastic doesn't get better with age, and certainly not in the heat we live in. Glad you figured out a fix.

 

[MLee]

There was a re-call on that part years ago. I think that it had to do with the latch not catching, not sure though.
thanks for the heads up.

 

[gtwitch]

I just had to replace the similar plastic clip on my 95 Ranger run around town truck, ditto on the plastic parts in doors,and taligates and hoods (slamming/bang)
gtwitch in wyoming

 

[MLee]

So is dealer the place to go to get a replacement? They probable don't have any idea what it might be with out a picture.

 

[DavidC]

Here is what I found. There wasn't much left of mine to compare.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dodge-Dakot...ash=item4ae057c22a:g:60QAAOSwF1dUUP1H&vxp=mtr

Dave