Lexus 53301-33140 Hood Sub-Assembly

The hood removal and installation process requires at least two people due to its awkwardness. To begin, open the hood and place blankets or pads over the fenders and cow area to protect the body and paint. Disconnect any interfering cables or wires and mark the hood hinges for proper alignment during installation. Detach the support struts by prying out the clips at the top and then support the hood with your shoulder while removing the bolts. The installation is the reverse of removal, aligning the hinges with the marks made earlier. For adjustment, move the hinge plates after loosening the bolts or nuts to achieve fore-and-aft and side-to-side alignment. Replace the factory bolts with standard bolts for hood-to-hinge adjustment. Loosen the bolts, move the hood incrementally, and tighten the hinge bolts while carefully lowering the hood to check the position. The entire hood latch assembly can be adjusted up-and-down and from side-to-side on the radiator support for secure and flush closure. Adjust the hood bumpers on the fender ends to ensure the hood is flush with the fenders when closed. Lastly, periodically lubricate the hood latch assembly and hinges with white, lithium-base grease to prevent binding and wear.