C5 Corvette Hood Louver Installation
Thank you for choosing Spiked Performance!
This Hood Louver kit is a DIY product, and although cutting into your car can be scary, it's a fairly simple job. Just remember to take your time, and cut with the most precision possible. We are not responsible for any damage to your vehicle or this product during the installation process or after. If you do not feel comfortable, please consider professional assembly.
Your Spiked Performance Hood Louver kit includes:
- Hood Louver set
- 1/8th Rivets
- Vinyl Cut template
Tools needed:
- Icy cold beverage
- Cutting tools-
- Angle Grinder
- Dremel with cutting discs and drum sanders
- Drill & 1/8″ drill bit
- Rivet Gun
- Scissors
- Masking tape
- Measuring tape
- Basic socket set
Make sure to wear protective equipment! Long sleeve shirt, eye/face protection, and ear protection are all recommended!
(optional) Step 1: Remove Hood
Although this is not necessary, it only takes a minute and will make the job much easier and cleaner.
Step 2: Install Cut Template
Cover the general cut area in masking tape. This will allow you to easily mark the hood, lay down the cut template, and protect your paint.
From the front of the hood, behind the headlight, measure 5.5" back and mark the hood. The measure .25" in and mark the hood at the same 5.5" mark.
Now, lay down the cut template to match the image below.
Step 3: Cut!
Follow the cut template, and cut out the inside. I prefer the power and speed of an angle grinder for this bit, but you can also use a Dremel.
Warning: Take your time. Do this in sections, and give your hood a chance to cool between cuts. If it over heats you'll melt the vinyl, and it can start to damage your paint.
This is a good time to sip your icy cold beverage between cuts.
Step 4: Cutting the Bottom Layer
Flip the hood over, and you should be able to see the holes you cut out on top.
Using your angle grinder, cut out the bracing blocking the opening.
Slide the louver into place and fine trim any area that's contacting. This is a great time to clean up the edges with the drum sander Dremel bits.
Step 5: Drill the mounting holes
Place the louver in the hood, then start by only drilling one hole. Stick a rivet in the hole to hold it in place. *Do not actually install the rivet, you are just placing it in the hole.
Line up a hole on the opposite end. Example; you drilled the bottom left hole, so line up the top right.
Drill through the louver and the hood together. Now stick a rivet in this hole to hold the louver in place.
Drill the remaining holes through the Louver and hood together. This insures perfect alignment.
Step 6: Install the Rivets
This step is self explanatory. Use your rivet gun to install the rivets. If you don't have a rivet gun, you can order one for about $20 on Amazon.
Step 7: Re-install the Hood
Only snug the bolts, then line up the hood. Tighten the bolts fully when hood is aligned.
That's it! Congratulations on your new hood louvers!
Email us hello@spikedperformance.com if you have any questions.