How to Install a Hood Ornament
by Russell WoodHood ornaments. Call them old-school, something custom or tacky, they're still a modification that's popular to do. Plus, it's super easy.
Installing a hood ornament
Step 1
Place the masking tape on the hood where you'd like to put the hood ornament.
Step 2
Measure the hood to be sure the tape is centered correctly. Once you have the center, mark it with a permanent marker.
Step 3
Measure the mounting holes on the bottom of the hood emblem. Generally, there are two holes on a hood ornament; measure the distance between the two. Take that number and divide it by two, which will give you the center of the emblem.
Step 4
Transfer those measurements to the tape on the hood. Double check them to ensure your marks are accurate---this is where you will drill your holes.
Step 5
Drill holes in the hood using progressively larger bits until you get to a size just slightly larger than the bolts that hold the emblem to the hood.
Step 6
Peel the tape off of the hood.
Step 7
Bolt the hood ornament to the hood using the 3/8-inch ratchet and sockets. The hood ornament is now successfully installed and good to go.
Tips
- Always double-check your measurements. You're going to be drilling holes in your hood, so you want to be sure they're right.
Things You'll Need
- Drill
- Drill bits in assorted sizes
- 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
- Hood ornament
- Masking tape
- Permanent marker
- Tape measure
Writer Bio
Russell Wood is a writer and photographer who attended Arizona State University. He has been building custom cars and trucks since 1994, including several cover vehicles. In 2000 Wood started a career as a writer, and since then he has dedicated his business to writing and photographing cars and trucks, as well as helping people learn more about how vehicles work.
