hood grill 'padding'

[billpatterson]

Hi there

I am wondering what the purpose of the hood grill 'padding' was/is? Numbers 1 and 2 below. Was it to reduce vibration? was to stop water from getting inside the interstitial space of the hood? I ask because mine are toast and knowing their purpose helps me recreate a set out of soft closed cell foam.

THX!

Bill

 

[Bearmw]

To better trap moisture and create rust?

 

[billpatterson]

I think its a lesser of two weevils. With them they trap moisture and create rust yet without them moisture still gets into the hood and you get rust and you probably get vibration from hood grills. Maybe a preventative approach is key; use the padding but first apply lots of cavity wax into the hood?

Bill

 

[dang]

How often do you drive your car in the rain or wash it where water pours into that area?

 

[Bearmw]

My car still has those but luckily the rubber is in pretty good shape although I scrubbed them with gritty orange hand cleaner followed by rubbing them with Sil Glyde. I don't know about anyone else but I hope to often drive my car no matter the weather ( snow and salt excepted).

 

[HB Chris]

I’ve seen more coupes than I can count and have never seen these although I knew they were in the parts book. They must have rotted away quickly. They aren’t for rattles and no way will closing up the sides keep water out as it comes in right through the slats anyway. Please post some pics.

 

[billpatterson]

Here are a few pics. As you said they deteriorate. I cut some new ones from some 1/8” closed cell foam.

Cheers
Bill

 

[Bearmw]

I'm glad this topic was raised as it motivated me to locate mine hiding in a dark corner of the basement. They are not in quite as good shape as I remembered but fortunately still serviceable. They have quite the intricate shape.

 

[duct-tape]

Well, I've learned something and just checked mine. Lol