Why are hood pins required for this panel?

FRP hoods are lighter than factory steel and lack the same rigid latch engagement as OEM units. Hood pins secure the panel at both corners to prevent lift at highway speeds and ensure safe closure during aggressive driving. This is standard practice for aftermarket FRP hoods.

Will this hood work with my factory latch and hinges?

Yes. This hood is engineered to bolt directly to your factory hinge mounting points using OEM hardware. The latch receptacle aligns with your vehicle's existing hood latch mechanism. Verify hinge and latch condition before installation — any wear on factory components should be addressed separately.

What prep work is needed before painting?

Sand and prep the surface before applying your chosen finish. This ensures proper paint adhesion and final appearance. Standard automotive surface preparation techniques apply — refer to your paint supplier's guidelines for grit recommendations and primer compatibility with your topcoat system.