Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Maintenance & Servicing Bonnet/Hood sliding forwards

I've noticed on my Plus 4 that the two bonnet halves slide forward over time, bumping up against the cowl. This has resulted in some paint rubbing on the cowl and a slight bend on the front upper corner of the driver's side bonnet panel.

I can move the panels back so that the gaps are all nice and equal, but I can't see a way to keep that position and on the next run they silently slide forward again. The brackets for the center bonnet bar look correct (though I'm new to Morgans).

Any tricks to keeping the panels in place? Could the bonnet bar brackets be worn and in need of replacement?

Thanks
dave

There are rubber corner pieces for the bonnet which may help to stop this problem.But never had this problem with any of my Morgans. Hope this helps.

Sorry can't help and never heard of that problem before but Ray's idea sounds like a good solution.

By cutting sections out of the brass fixture that holds the front and back in place, shims can be made to locate the bonnet and keep it from sliding forward. First You must buy the brass fixture. I can not find it in the Morgan Spares catalog. Call Linda Eckler I am sure She has them in stock. If not Mel Rutter will have them. Cut them cross wise like a loaf of bread. Check with Derek Wilburn or His brother John. Also Bill Fink or Mike Anthony will know about this. You live in Santa Monica, so Derek Wilburn is your best bet. Dennis Glavis can put you in touch with Derek. Denis owns "Morgan West".

Was this the reason for bonnet strap maybe?

Are your corded pads making contact with the bonnet halves, these would at some resistance to sliding?

Sounds like new bonnet tape plus the rubber or leather corners.

If you have lose bonnets you might want to consider this trick and it would probably prevent them sliding too.

Definetely the way to go - if you want it done properly.

Given the age of your car, it should not be a surprise.

Following years of use, unless rebuilt and done well, the bonnet sides at the front and rear centres deform slightly. Furthermore, the brass centre strip retaining brackets wear badly, particularly the front one allowing the bonnet sides to slide forward. Remove them and inspect; I'll be surprised if you don't see considerable wear in the form of two circular marks.

I hope that this helps.

Thanks all for the replies.

I do have bonnet corners already and the bonnet does appear to be touching the tapes. I have some spare moulding very similar to that in the link from Roger (purchased from Woolies for the Peerless) so I can try that.

And finally, Button, I'm not sure what brass fitting you refer to. Do you mean the clamp that holds the bonnet center bar?