Toyota 53301-04030 Hood Sub-Assembly

The hood is somewhat awkward to remove and install, so at least two people should perform this procedure. Begin by opening the hood and placing rags or covers over the windshield and fenders to protect them during removal. Disconnect the windshield washer fluid lines before detaching the hood. Mark the relationship of the hood to the hinges before removing the hood hinge bolts. Remove the hood retaining bolts and lift off the hood, placing a shop rag under the corners to protect the paint, while having an assistant support one side. Installation follows the reverse order of removal. If necessary after installation, the entire hood latch assembly can be adjusted up-and-down and side-to-side on the upper radiator support to ensure the hood closes securely and is flush with the fenders. Scribe a line around the hood latch mounting bolts for reference, then loosen the bolts and reposition the latch as needed, retightening the bolts afterward. Finally, adjust the hood bumpers on the radiator support to ensure the hood is flush with the fenders when closed, and periodically lubricate the hood latch and hinges with white lithium-based grease to prevent sticking and wear.