Car & Truck Hood Panels

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Car & Truck Hoods

The hood, commonly known as a bonnet, is the hinged casing covering the engine compartment of the car or truck. It provides access to the compartment for repair or maintenance. A hidden latch is used to hold down the bonnet.

What is the function of the car or truck hood?

The main function of the car hood is to protect the components underneath it: for example, the engine. Without this protection, small stones kicked up by other cars could puncture a fluid container or damage the engine. In addition, most engines are not supposed to be exposed to excess water. Therefore, leaving an engine exposed to the rain might put it at risk of hydrolocking. Other than the protection of certain car parts, they also serve as an access point to the aforementioned parts. In general terms, they serve as another door.

What are some materials used in making car hoods?

The majority of vehicles are assembled using steel car hoods, although some are manufactured with aluminum. Although steel is durable, it is quite heavy. On the other hand, aluminum is durable but weighs less. Carbon fiber is also another material that is used in manufacturing car hoods as it is relatively strong and lightweight. Shedding the extra weight aids vehicles to speed up much quicker and maintain those speeds with minimal effort. As with any other car, carbon fiber helps saves money on fuel since the reduced weight translates to less stress on the engine. Fiberglass is another alternative when it comes to car hood materials. It is extremely lightweight, and at times, it may require pins to hold the truck hoods down.

What are the different car and truck hood parts?

  • Inner Panel: This acts as an insulator, preventing noise from the bonnet area from escaping.
  • Outer Panel: This is the skin that is visible outside. This panel needs protection from rust and scratches.
  • Release Handle: This is the system inside the vehicle that enables the driver to unlatch the hood and normally features a cable and a handle.
  • Hinges: Ideally, truck hoods have two hinges: one on the passengers side and the other on the drivers side. They act as a pivot upon which the truck hood swings open.
  • Latch: This device features a locking arm that keeps the hood secure while driving. The arm pivots for opening and accessing the vehicles mechanics.

What are the different car or truck hood types?

  • Bulged or Flat Hoods: These have a basic design devoid of any special features. They are designed solely to protect components from materials from the road as well as weather elements.
  • Air Extractor Hoods: These are quite similar to louvered ones, although they have wider openings that allow for greater heat extraction and easy removal of heat pressure from the engine.
  • Louvered Hoods: These have thin, vertical openings on the sides that help ventilate heat from truck hoods.
  • Ram Air Hoods: These have at least one air intake opening (scoop) on them. Typically, they are located in the back or center, slightly towards the windshield and allow for the flow of cool and pressurized air.

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