So, in many of the GT500's I've been looking at, the front hood is "bowed". In some it isn't. I understand it's fiberglass, but how easy is that to fix? And how common is this?
Also on many of the cars I've looked at, the panel gaps are all over the map, some are excellent, some are terrible. I'm guessing this is not uncommon? Even on cars I've seen that had extensive restoration work, some get the gaps right, others seem to ignore them. Also common?
Still haven't found one to buy yet, looked at one, looking at two more next month. I appreciate any input...
Its not uncommon and was recognized as a problem very early on.
Its not easy to fix without stripping the hood, cutting fiberglass and reworking the hood to match the fenders.
Quote from: Coralsnake on December 19, 2025, 05:41:37 PMIts not uncommon and was recognized as a problem very early on.
Its not easy to fix without stripping the hood, cutting fiberglass and reworking the hood to match the fenders.
+1. The less invasive way of getting the hood to lay flat is by removing hood springs are lower tension hood springs but those alternative compromises don't always fully work and look visibly incorrect compared to assemblyline.
I'm a fairly new owner of my 69 GT 350 and have owned it for 3 years. Like you, one of my initial concerns was with the hood bow. It bugged me. That concern was amplified by the fact I have restored 3 Mustangs over the years and bodywork is my strong suit. But after a few car shows and spending a lot of time visiting with folks who have never seen a 69 GT 350 and explaining the unique history of these cars, the hood doesn't bug me any more. Its part of my Shelby and in some sort of weird way I am proud of that bow. Even better, you can't see the bow from the drivers seat as you stroke that four speed! All the best with your search for your new Shelby.
A bowed hood is a badge of honor on 69-70 Shelby's
Thank you all for your input, I feel a bit better now...