Here is my attempt to show a successful method to cut the hood to the proper size (1/8" gap) then the prep and painting.
First of all, I got this sweet hood from Dale A. (http://www.dalesresto.com/links.html).
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I felt that the hood would work much better if the air could be channeled much closer to the carb before being dumped into the engine compartment. As you can see, the air scoop will allow the air to enter well before the carb.
So, I found a Corvette restoration shop and took the hood to them for additional fiberglass work. After some head scratching, we came up with a solution. A removable fiberglass panel that will channel the air to 4" before the air filter.
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Started with marking the hood where the carb and filter was and then made a cardboard pattern. High density foam is used to seal the sides.
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Now with a floor to the intake, I can make a foam insert to be used in the cold and or rain.
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The panel is curved to eliminate vibration at speed.
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Brackets and hardware used to secure the panel. I wanted it removable for painting, cleaning and that one in a million bird strike in the scoop possibility.
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Forward stop for the panel.
I will be fitting the hood next month and will continue with pictures and text on how I am doing it. Luckily, the Corvette shop is there to fix any mistakes.