Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Bonnet Removal Tips Please.

Maybe something on here already but I can't find it.

Does anyone have any tips for a safe single person bonnet removal and refitting technique?

I always seem to want to do this at the most inconvenient times (according to SWMBO) but I can't think of a safe way to do it on my own.

I've got a couple of ideas but it could get expensive if it goes wrong and I like learning from others mistakes instead of making my own.

Any tried and tested advice gratefully accepted.

I'm all ears on this one.

Bob,
I've done this several times without mishap. A thick towel laid on the bonnet after undoing front and rear screws, then just lift off and place gently down on the floor.

Lay a nice thick blanket (I use an old cellular job from the 1970's) over the top flat section of the bonnet. Open both bonnet halves so the blanket is sandwiched between them and tie the knobs together across the top to hold it as a single unit. Use some gaffa tape to hold the hinge blocks to the bonnet

Then you can take the screws out and lift the whole thing up and out of the way. Make sure you have a space prepared to put it down, I stand it on its rear end on another blanket.

Don't underestimate just how bulky and awkward the bonnet is to carry.

As Tim says above , make sure you have a prepared space to put it down , AND a clear pathway to that space from your car. A windy day won't help either.

BTW repeated screwing/unscrewing of the rear mounting will eventually lead to the need for larger screws into the woodwork as they will work loose over repeated use.

Doesn’t water creep through the screwholes after repeated removal?
Never removed a bonnet but I’d be tempted to put candle wax on the screws when refitting.
Captain Tolley.....alternative.

I've removed my bonnet thee times. On each occasion I stuffed a couple of matchsticks into the hole before refitting the screws. Adding some Captain Tolley's is a good idea.

I have done it with a helper to be safe by only undoing the rear hinge.

I placed it on a blanket & it is a big old thing.
I used the matchstick approach plus some Ronseal damp wood preserver. It is resin that seeps in to the wood & sets. I then add clear mastic over the screws heads, dampstart spray works.

I have removed and replaced the bonnet on all 3 of My Morgans with scratching etc. I just take the bolts off on either end working from the front side get the to halves under control lift up and set on the garage floor. I do not use a towel but seems like a good idea to Me. I do not worry about leaks. However; I have Old Morgans not New.

sorry "With out scratching etc."