I just put my newly painted hood on for the first time. I was amazed at how well it fit. Then I folded it up to expose the drivers side of the engine and peeled the paint off the hinge rod in places. #@&^$%*&(# I'm sure I am not alone in this so what did you other guy's do to fix the problem?

Bob, before painting I relieve the panels along the hinge line with a hand file along the flats so there is more clearance. I learnt this trick as a result of similar experiences as you have. It also pays to not load up the area with many coats of paint.

Allan from down under.

Replace the rods with stainless steel.

Hand file the space wider. Do not file too much off. It is a lot more trouble to weld back on.