View Full Version : What is correct for the hood hinges on the MK4?
wallace18
03-06-2016, 02:22 PM
I mounted my hood yesterday on my MK4. I gapped it and it opens and closes very easily. The gas struts keep it open fine. My problem is it seems to have a ton of play in the hinges. You can move the hood when open 2-3 inches side to side due to play in the hinges. I double check that I used the hardware correctly as per the manual diagrams. Is this normal? Should I tighten it up with some washers or does it need this movement for normal operation. It just seems sloppy to me. Thanks for any info. TW:confused:
5128451285
edwardb
03-06-2016, 04:18 PM
No, it doesn't need to be that way. It can be adjusted to have very little play. First thing IMO is lose the provided wavy washers. Replace them with 3/8 inch ID washers that fit over the step in the shoulder bolts. When properly assembled, and the shoulder bolt installed, there will be a small step of the larger diameter of the bolt protruding. Add a 3/8 inch ID washer making sure it fits over the step, then add the lock nut. Make it snug but not too tight. Do them all this way and you should find the hinge assembly works quite well with minimal slop. Hope the explanation makes sense.
BEAR-AvHistory
03-06-2016, 04:46 PM
Just checked. Zero play in the hinges. Same feel as my DD. Regular flat steel washers to fill the gap & self locking nuts to hold it together. Did not use any spring washers.
wallace18
03-06-2016, 04:58 PM
Thanks. That makes sense.
FYI, Manual diagram is incorrect. I just put together my hinges this afternoon for my MK4 and found the same issue. Use the manual for figuring out which brackets go together. The washers I received weren't the correct size so I made a trip to the local home center and picked up 8 stainless 3/8" washers. Take one of the bolts with you when you go, the washer should fit over the shoulder of the bolt. The basic order is:
Bolt - Washer - Bracket - Brass bushing - Bracket - Wave washer - Washer - Nut. When all tightened it should have zero play and be difficult to move. You will need to loosen the nut a little. Note, with the wave washer and 3/8" washer you will find if you don't line up the 3/8" washer just right it will sit against the shoulder of the bolt and the whole assembly will be loose. You'll need to make sure the washer is centered when you tighten it.