Early Bonnet for '79

[PininF]

Anyone know if an early style bonnet will fit a ' 79…
I've always preferred the flat bonnet and would swap over if no issues.

[papadopalas]

The one my 79 came with when I got it a couple of years ago had an earlier years top on it. It looked and fit fine with one problem. The sides came down a little too far and when the top was up I had to roll down the windows an inch or so to open the doors.

[spidernut]

I think he means the bonnet, as in the British bonnet (hood). The earlier hoods will not clear the distributor or cambox covers on the 1995cc motors. The larger bumps were added to accommodate both. I know one person who said he managed to get everything to tuck under the small bump hood by turning the distributor 180 degrees.

[azruss]

It will fit. I've done it with both a 70 with a 2L transplant and with an 80FI. With the 80, i had to shorten the radiator fill neck. As stated, you need to rotate the dizzy to get wire clearance.

[PininF]

Thanks guys, was even thinking of a new electronic ignition to help solve the problem…

Now just need to find a hood , not to many early ones laying around over here…:(

[spidernut]

Not that you want to fly to the California and visit an auto salvage yard in Sacramento.......but there is a flat hood 72 being parted out there. That would be one very expensive hood.

[vandor]

You may also have clearance problems with the cambelt cover hitting the center rib of the hood.
To put on an early hood one also needs the early hood hinges and the early hood prop.

[PininF]

I think we should put this idea to rest or too hard basket…If ever a hood comes my way from a wreck it might be worth playing around with.
Thanks guys for all you're advice , this is why I visit this forum.

Cheers
John

[spiderrey]

Is the flat hood in the yard in good shape?

[spidernut]

It appears in the photos to have cracked body filler on it.