I have to replace the bonnet support struts, as well as the spark plugs. I was wondering if the struts are unbolted can you safely tilt the bonnet further forward without breaking the plastic grill? I.E. will the hinges limit forward tilt at the right position?

 

NO, if you tilt the bonnet too far forward it will break the plastic insert in the top of the bumper.


Better to remove the bonnet.

 

Agreed.

Remove the grille, and a LITTLE more is possible, but the hinges have NO limit stop built in, they are a simple plate and pivot pin gate hinge design.

Mine has early Honda Civic tailgate struts, about 1988ish from memory (and memory sucks a tad), and the plastic grille is long gone, for a home made mesh style, and I have no issues with acces room.

You only hot your head twice on those pins before you learn the art of ducking.

 

Yep, got a scar to prove it. The Blue Goose got me good!

 

On mine (‘85 HE), I believe I was able to move the bonnet further up after disconnecting the struts. I remember I tried it and I thought it had just enough clearance not to break plastic trim. Very tight for sure, with some friction. But I was very careful, with one person holding/pushing and another (me) looking from the front. I made a note to myself that next time I will need to “do” radiator job, I will just lift the bonnet up...

 

Hi Fla Steve

I've never taken the Bonnet/Hood off, as its too much hassle and did it exactly the same as V1roc did, by removing the Bonnet/Hood Struts and carefully lifting it up in the Air

While being very careful not to put any pressure on the Plastic Grill, where once having done so tied it up to the Top of my Carport, so it couldn't move

Which then gave me more than enough room to swap the Radiator over single handed, which was a 'Walk in the park' for me to do

Where its pretty much essential to have easy access when for instance you're doing something like changing the Spark Plugs