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Removing 2013 JK Hood Latches

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45K views 53 replies 20 participants last post by  sdlindsey  
#1 ·
Ok I admit it, I am not mechanically inclined so I stay away from projects where I would need to be. However, I thought replacing the stock hood latches with the Rampage locking ones would be within my, ahem, mechanical ability :hide:.

So, I rounded up all the tools per the Rampage instructions but it appears the only real instructions they give you are for the installation, not removal of old ones (unless you consider "remove factory hood latches" enough instruction :whistling:). So how the heck do you get the stock latches off? What size is the nut and how do you get to it? What size socket/extension etc is needed? Do you need to remove anything because there is plenty of stuff in the way??

Any help would be appreciated as I have 2 jeeps waiting for these latches and I would hate to return them and embarrass myself anymore. :facepalm:
 
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#2 ·
I just did this. It was not too hard. The hood part of the latches uses a 10mm nut and the body part uses a 13mm. I used a 1/4" drive socket wrench, the shortest I had, and the smallest of each socket I could fine. I used a 1 inch extension on the 13mm. You can gently work the socket wrench into the space. Take your time, work slowly, and you should be fine. One note, the bottom part (the larger part) can be rotated even when tight, so don't stress about getting an exact line up.
 
#3 ·
I just did this, this weekend!

6" socket extension with a universal and a 13mm socket.
at first i was using the craftsman socket but then i had to switch to a traditional, the craftsman one kept loosing grip on the nuts just loosen it up and get it by hand.

I did watch the daystar video but it wasnt that informational as i couldnt use their technique. Just had to go in between the grill and that black piece
akash
 
D
#4 ·
did you have any issues with alignment?

I just installed a set on my 08, I had to grind/file out the holes so the outside hood attachment piece to sit lower on the hood. it was a pain, but doable. I did about 30 test fits to get both side to work and the hood to latch/lock and be able to open "easily" (ie one handed operation). Even still, I have to open the passenger side first then driver side and closer the passenger side first and then driver side. I will eventually go back and grind/file more, ran out of time on the install day due to rain/night fall.

tip : if you have to force the lock to actually lock, it's TOO TIGHT!!! DON'T!!! you can (most likely will) bend/break a key. That's why you get 4 keys I suppose...

the rampage guy at the show (I got mine at the 4 wheel parts jeep/truck fest) said that some are tighter than others because of the hole alignment on the hood and that on some models jeep adjusted/enlarged the holes to even get the factory latches to work.

I used wrenches on mine except for the hood, I used socket and hex key.

another TIP : I also found it easier to work with the grill removed.

If you go with a socket , you can get magnetic inserts that fit inside the socket and will hold the nut/bolt and keep it from falling out. I have a set and use them frequently on various projects.
 
Z
#9 ·
DM6156 said:
did you have any issues with alignment?


tip : if you have to force the lock to actually lock, it's TOO TIGHT!!! DON'T!!! you can (most likely will) bend/break a key. That's why you get 4 keys I suppose...


.
Click to expand...
I had dealer install mine but hood was smashed down on fender so I loosened up the top and was able to slide it down slightly. Works fine down with regular cap between hood and fender. I can't lock it though and actually bent one key. Thanks for the tip. I'll loosen the bottom tonight.
 
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#5 ·
I also just did this. Removing the grill gives you slightly more room. That will allow you to get a ratchet and 13mm socket (no extension) in to deal with the lower nut. The hard part is getting it back on. I put on Drake latches and was able to use the stock nut (which makes it slightly easier).

The tops are pretty self explanatory.
 
#6 ·
I did it when I first got my Wrangler. Not hard...just a pain in rump.
Getting the stock ones off wasn't too hard....but getting the Rampage ones on sucked. Hard to keep the nut in place.

You really, really, really, really need the right size tools and extensions.
 
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Z
#11 ·
How the heck am I going to loosen the latch? Can’t get anything in there even with an extension.




 
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D
#12 ·
Z
#15 ·
Rampaging Mad

Dear Quadratec:
In regards to your requests to take pics of the damaged part, there is no need to take pictures as nothing damaged would show. There are several problems with the Rampage Locking Hood Latches. #1. They snug, or perhaps “smash” would be a better word, the hood down on the fender, which looks horrible and unnatural, and will eventually rub the paint off. The OEM hood latches (a cheap piece of crap themselves) at least have a rubber pad. I have adjusted the hood portion to go downwards as far as possible and that helped with the gap somewhat. I have now read on the internet where people are drilling holes in their hood or actually in the top portion of the Rampage lock in order to get it to go down further. #2 To open either one or both hood latches I have had to use the claw of my stubby hammer. It varies as to which side, or both, at varies times. This is because the latch is too snug and also because the design is, well, thought up by a Chinese peasant. Try grasping the bottom portion and you’ll see what I mean. You can’t get your fingers underneath and have to rely on the grasping power of your thumb and index finger. #3 I can’t get one lock to lock. It works when no pressure is on it but not when you have the hood shut. I even bent one of the Chinese iron ore flimsy keys. #4 I’m not saying anything about their directions but now I understand why my dealership took so long to install the latches. I’m now out that $53.00.

Please send me a FedEx label to send this thing back. I’ll order another latch soon as I research which one works.

I’ve been in touch with Tuffy Security to see if their R & D guys can come up with something better. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

Please consider pulling this piece of junk off your shelves.

Thanks for your help.
 
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#36 ·
zenman said:
Dear Quadratec:
In regards to your requests to take pics of the damaged part, there is no need to take pictures as nothing damaged would show. There are several problems with the Rampage Locking Hood Latches. #1. They snug, or perhaps “smash” would be a better word, the hood down on the fender, which looks horrible and unnatural, and will eventually rub the paint off. The OEM hood latches (a cheap piece of crap themselves) at least have a rubber pad. I have adjusted the hood portion to go downwards as far as possible and that helped with the gap somewhat. I have now read on the internet where people are drilling holes in their hood or actually in the top portion of the Rampage lock in order to get it to go down further. #2 To open either one or both hood latches I have had to use the claw of my stubby hammer. It varies as to which side, or both, at varies times. This is because the latch is too snug and also because the design is, well, thought up by a Chinese peasant. Try grasping the bottom portion and you’ll see what I mean. You can’t get your fingers underneath and have to rely on the grasping power of your thumb and index finger. #3 I can’t get one lock to lock. It works when no pressure is on it but not when you have the hood shut. I even bent one of the Chinese iron ore flimsy keys. #4 I’m not saying anything about their directions but now I understand why my dealership took so long to install the latches. I’m now out that $53.00.

Please send me a FedEx label to send this thing back. I’ll order another latch soon as I research which one works.

I’ve been in touch with Tuffy Security to see if their R & D guys can come up with something better. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

Please consider pulling this piece of junk off your shelves.

Thanks for your help.
Click to expand...


Jeez dude! Just grab the sides of the latch and lift.

Image


Anyone thinking it's necessary to use a claw hammer to open their hood latches may need to eat some Spinach first
 
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Z
#18 ·
bcsnave said:
:facepalm:Hey Zenman

How do you really feel about them...I couldn't tell. :dance:

Perhaps you could clarify for us...
Click to expand...
Ok, I'll try to reword it so it's clearer, lol!
 
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N
#17 ·
I installed these last night, it took me twice as long as it should of because I dropped a washer into my air intake and had to take apart the air box. I was surprised how sturdy the latch body felt, I think its an improvement over the OEM latches.

I did observe what zenman was referring to, the gap is much smaller between the hood and the body, if not non-existent in some places. That can be adjusted tho by spending some time tweaking the both the latch body and the hood catch...

These parts were not hard at all to install...although if you are not mechanically inclined, I can see how you might be confused.

One thing i'd recommend is that when you go to install the "star" washer on the bolt post, I used a little adhesive and tacked the washer to the nut, and then used pliers to wedge the nut inside the engine bay/body. With my other hand, i started twisting the nut until it caught the threads. If i didnt use the adhesive, getting that star washer to stay on the post by itself would be tricky.

Overall, I am satisfied with this product
 
Z
#19 ·
nitroz680 said:
I installed these last night, it took me twice as long as it should of because I dropped a washer into my air intake and had to take apart the air box. I was surprised how sturdy the latch body felt, I think its an improvement over the OEM latches.

I did observe what zenman was referring to, the gap is much smaller between the hood and the body, if not non-existent in some places. That can be adjusted tho by spending some time tweaking the both the latch body and the hood catch...

These parts were not hard at all to install...although if you are not mechanically inclined, I can see how you might be confused.

One thing i'd recommend is that when you go to install the "star" washer on the bolt post, I used a little adhesive and tacked the washer to the nut, and then used pliers to wedge the nut inside the engine bay/body. With my other hand, i started twisting the nut until it caught the threads. If i didnt use the adhesive, getting that star washer to stay on the post by itself would be tricky.

Overall, I am satisfied with this product
Click to expand...
I spent a lot of time tweaking. However my point is that there shouldn't need to be any tweaking. If you're going to build something build it right. Unfortunately, I'm from an era where I expect that. Yes, it's a hefty paperweight but the lock is crap. Last night I received my Tuffy door locks. The difference in quality is striking. The keys to the Tuffy lock look as strong as my Jeep key.
 
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D
#20 ·
The rep at the show did mention these are also designed to eliminate hood flutter. They are designed to be tight - yes, can be too tight and not functional.

Having said that, They simply were not direct bolt on straight from the box. Modifying the holes on the latches did the trick.

The pain in installation, for me it was time consuming to grind/file the holes, was worth it in my opinion in the end. I already had the proper tools.

Would prefer it work straight from the box, but from Rampage persepctive, I understand the reasoning and issues behind the design and function. And, the rep did give me a 2nd set of hooks (piece that bolts to outside of hood) for the hood to grind/file. That made it easier to digest.

Rampage rep did an excellent job, he explained the design, installation and even provided "spare" parts to ensure I was able to do what was needed to make the product work (some of issue comes from jeep part manufacturing).
 
Z
#21 ·
I hear you but I expect Rampage's reasoning to turn out a product that bolts on and works, not one where I need a machine shop to re-design it to work once I've shelled out the money for it. I'm hoping Tuffy takes this product on.
 
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#24 ·
I couldn't agree more, I see post after post on products that people "recommend" after a drawn out "how to make it work" LOL :rofl: I hear things like, if you buy this and cut that after you reverse engineer this great product and spend additional money, when you could of bought a quality product that installs and works as advertised. The supposed money saved is spent on additional junk and time to make a inferior part work when you should do research on the multiple forums. If I happen to buy a part that turns out to be junk, I never recommend them and help advise others on my misfortune, not give them a revised how to make it work instruction. :rofl:
 
Z
#27 ·
nitroz680 said:
I respectfully disagree with the assessment of the quality of the part. In my experiences, the hardware installed easily and functions properly. I would recommend the hardware to a friend, but to each his own, we're all Jeepers
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That's ok. We are all Jeepers and sharing our experiences. I do agree with Commandocon. I just bought a M&P Shield 9mm and that baby works perfectly, as I expected. I didn't expect to have to take it to one of my gunsmith buddies to have it modified to do what it's suposed to do out of the box. Granted I'm a grouchy old white-assed cracker but I bet my MBA I know how products are supposed to be built, lol! And the reason I'm the way I am is because most are not!
 
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#37 ·
I tried to install the Rampage hood latches before and saw how difficult it would be. I wasn't sure how I'd do it.

Here's the "trick":

1. Remove the grill (very easy - pull 6 black pins along the top and pull out from the bottom then twist the turn signals a quarter turn to remove them)

2. Remove the headlights (very easy - remove 4 screws on each and unplug)

3. Insert your hand in through the headlight opening to access the 13mm nut holding the bottom latch in place. You will want a 3" extension for your 1/4" ratchet on the passenger side and a 6" extension for your 1/4" ratchet on the driver's side.

Removing the grill and headlights makes this a very easy install!

:iamhappy:
 
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#38 ·
I installed mine by removing the grill. Made it easy enough to reach with my fingers and a box wrench. As for fit/alignment, on the hood side I adjusted it by using the bottom bolt for fit, tightened. Then screwed the top bolt into the hood with an allen wrench. Before doing it this way, it was out of alignment and way to tight on locking the clamps.

The drivers side seemed tighter then the passenger side though. The rubber pad supplied with the latch is also to thin. I had to beef up the drivers side with other material to clear the fender so there was no metal to metal contact with the hood. The passenger side didn't need the extra material.

After installation, I was able to slide the instruction paper, folded once between the clamped down hood like a feeler gauge with no drag.
 

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#47 ·
Looks like I'm going to have to cut either the latches or my hood to make mine work. With the pieces on the hood as low as they can go I can barely latch one side and the other isn't even close to being able to be latched. At least it was easy for me to remove the stock latches and install the new. I don't have fender liners installed so I have pretty good access from below.
 
N
#49 ·
Obviously, we had different opinions on the quality of the product / ease of installment

Ok that being said, I dont see how politics made its way into the conversation. The democrat/republican argument is of little value added to this conversation. I'm no supporting member or forum moderator, but seems to stand to reason that comments should be constructive, rather than baseless and inflamatory.

I'm not calling anyone out, I just dont really see the need. to each his own, right?
 
Z
#51 ·
nitroz680 said:
Obviously, we had different opinions on the quality of the product / ease of installment

Ok that being said, I dont see how politics made its way into the conversation. The democrat/republican argument is of little value added to this conversation. I'm no supporting member or forum moderator, but seems to stand to reason that comments should be constructive, rather than baseless and inflamatory.

I'm not calling anyone out, I just dont really see the need. to each his own, right?
Click to expand...
I'll apologize for that remark. However, I was responding to a Democratic-type response where I was expected to purchase products of poor quality in order to keep employees fed. Won't happen with me.
 
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#52 ·
I've had my Rampage Hood Locks for 6 months now, and I really like them and have no problems with them at all. I didn't have to take the grill off to install either, and I can open them whenever I want... geesh, and I'm a girl!
 
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Z
#53 ·
Guess you'll be a woman some day then :worthy:
 
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